The phrase “when I get big like you….” comes out of Madilyn’s mouth about 100 times a day. It seems like everything I do she asks to do. If I tell her no she asks if she can do it when she is bigger. I take it as a compliment that she wants to be like me and do the things that I do. However, it is also a great weight to bare. I find myself wondering if I am being not only a good example but a great example to her in all that I do.
Some days I succeed at being a great role model for her, other days I fail in the most miserable ways. My actions and words are not always what I would want her to emulate. I want to show her how to be a good wife, mother, teacher, friend and so much more. The description of a worthy woman recorded in Proverbs remains in my mind constantly. I know that if I can be a woman of God that I will be the example that Madilyn needs. Many people see this as a passage on being a good or perfect wife. I see it as a passage that applies to all areas of being a woman, including motherhood.
Proverbs 31:10-31
10 Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. 11 The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain.12 She does him good and not evil all the days of her life. 13 She seeks wool and flax, and willingly works with her hands. 14 She is like the merchant ships, she brings her food from afar. 15 She also rises while it is yet night, and provides food for her household, and a portion for her maidservants. 16 She considers a field and buys it; from her profits she plants a vineyard. 17 She girds herself with strength, and strengthens her arms. 18 She perceives that her merchandise is good, and her lamp does not go out by night. 19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff, and her hand holds the spindle. 20 She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy. 21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household is clothed with scarlet. 22 She makes tapestry for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. 23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land. 24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies sashes for the merchants 25 Strength and honor are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come. 26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness. 27 She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. 28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “ Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all.” 30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates.
Proverbs 31:10-31
Tags: godly woman, growing up, Proverbs 31, role model
Great post. I have 4 children ages 4 – 16. I’ve heard them say it so many times and you are right – there is pressure there to be enough. I think it’s a good pressure. It’s a challenge for me and makes me more aware of my choices. Thanks for sharing this!!