Three Mothers To Learn From

Three Mothers to Learn From: A Call to Godly Womanhood

The Silent Strength of a Mother

Mothers are often the most selfless people we know. Many of us have seen this selflessness at our very dining tables, where a mother might quietly let go of her share so her child can have more. And yet, we may not even notice it. Such love often goes unseen, uncelebrated, but it is profound. On this Mother's Day, it's fitting to reflect on the legacy of godly mothers—those who have walked in humility, faith, and strength, shaping generations through their quiet obedience to God.

Let us look at the lives of three mothers in Scripture whose examples continue to teach us. Each one offers something powerful for women today—whether you are a mother, hope to be one, or influence young lives around you.

1. Mary: A Model of Humility and Submission

Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a young woman who exhibited extraordinary humility. When the angel Gabriel brought her the message that she would bear the Son of God, her response was simple but powerful: “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

This statement reflects her full submission to God’s will. She believed that no word from God would ever fail. Mary’s faith and humility are not qualities to be worshiped, but certainly to be followed. Of all the women on the earth, God chose her—not because of her lineage, appearance, or talents—but because of her heart.

Later, in Luke 1:46–55, Mary’s song of praise (often called the Magnificat) further reveals her spiritual depth. She magnifies the Lord, rejoices in her Savior, and declares God's mercy, justice, and faithfulness. It is a rich text that speaks of God's regard for the humble and His might against the proud.

Mary's humility extended even to the way she responded during difficult moments. When Simeon prophesied that a sword would pierce her own soul (Luke 2:34–35), she treasured those words quietly. She didn’t protest or seek attention—she accepted God’s path.

Today, humility remains the secret to godliness, a victorious life, and being a blessing to our families and church. When a woman humbles herself not to be noticed, not even to be called humble, but just to please God—such a heart touches heaven. This humility, seen in Mary and perfected in Christ (Philippians 2), is what God values.

Even in the temple when Jesus was found among the teachers, Mary’s response was reflective, not reactive. “His mother treasured all these things in her heart.” (Luke 2:51) That quiet strength is something worth emulating.

May every woman reading this long to be such a mother, who walks in humility and leaves behind the fragrance of Christ in every generation.

Bible References (with reflections):

Luke 1:38 – Shows Mary's humility and faith.
Luke 1:46–55 – The Magnificat: a song of praise full of deep spiritual truths.
Luke 2:34–35 – Simeon's prophecy to Mary: the cost of following God's will.
Luke 2:51 – Mary treasured God's workings quietly, showing her spiritual depth.
Philippians 2:5–8 – Christ’s humility: the ultimate example to follow.

2. Lois and Eunice: Passing Down a Legacy of Faith

Faith is not merely taught—it is imparted. In 2 Timothy 1:5, we see Paul acknowledging the sincere faith in Timothy, which first dwelt in his grandmother Lois and then in his mother Eunice. These two women stand as shining examples of spiritual heritage.

Grandmothers, your role is significant. You are still planting seeds—especially in your daughters who are now raising their own children. Lois didn’t leave behind land or riches, but something far more lasting: a living faith. Her daughter Eunice absorbed that faith and passed it on to her son, Timothy.

Eunice’s husband may have been a wealthy Greek, but it was her investment in Timothy's spiritual life that bore fruit. Timothy became a young apostle—a vessel God used powerfully in the early church. And it all began with the faith passed down from mother and grandmother.

Paul continues in 2 Timothy 1:6–7 to encourage Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God and reminds him: “God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power, love, and discipline.”

Mothers, take this as a challenge. Don’t settle for just managing your home—impart faith. Your children are growing up in a world with more temptations, more peer pressure, and more spiritual opposition than many of us ever faced. But you can plant boldness, not fear; faith, not doubt; discipline, not compromise.

Even if your husband is away or occupied, you have this powerful opportunity: to raise your children in the fear of God, to encourage them to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and to live differently from the world. Remind them—God has not given them a spirit of fear.

May every mother and grandmother take up this calling seriously. Teach, model, and pray. Impart not just moral values, but living, powerful faith.

Bible References (with reflections):

2 Timothy 1:5 – Faith was passed down from Lois to Eunice to Timothy.
2 Timothy 1:6–7 – God calls young people to be bold, not fearful; full of power, love, and self-discipline.

A Mother’s Hidden Work: God Sees It All

(here’s a touching poem displayed in the speaker's home, gifted to his wife by her own mother. It speaks the heart of what motherhood truly is)

No one truly knows what it takes to be a mother—except a mother. One plaque captures this sentiment beautifully:

Only a Mother

Nobody knows of the work it takes
To keep the home together,
Nobody knows of the steps it takes,
Nobody knows but mother.

Nobody listens to childish woes,
Which kisses kindly smother,
Nobody’s pained by naughty blows,
Nobody, only mother.

Nobody knows of the anxious fears,
Lest darlings may not weather
The storms of life in after years,
Nobody knows but mother.

Nobody kneels at the throne above
To thank the Heavenly Father
For that sweetest gift—a mother’s love,

Nobody can but mother.

Mothers are the unseen backbone of the home and church. They may not stand behind pulpits, but their influence shapes eternity. They model Christ’s love, patience, and humility in the daily grind—in the kitchen, by the bedside, at the school gate.

On this Mother's Day, may every mother be filled afresh with the Holy Spirit. May timidity, fear, and unbelief be cast out. And may they impart to their children the same Spirit of power, love, and discipline.

Even if your children have grown and left home, your role is not over. Continue to pray, speak words of life, and set an example of quiet strength and trust in God.

God loves you as much as He loves Jesus. He sees your sacrifices, your tears, your hidden labor. You are the lifeline of the home and the church.

Closing Prayer Thought

Heavenly Father, thank You for every mother. May You bless them with grace, strength, and faith. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, so they may raise children who walk in Your ways and stand strong in this generation. May they be lights in their homes and leave a lasting legacy of godliness. Amen.

Three Mothers To Learn From - Ian Robson