As Mother's Day approaches, we are reminded of the impact that mothers have on our lives and communities. This is a special day to honor and celebrate the invaluable role of mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures in our lives.

In Titus 2:3-5, the apostle Paul shares timeless wisdom regarding the role of aged women to set an example in loving their husbands and children, embracing the role of keepers at home, and conducting themselves accordingly. Now it's up to you to prepare a sermon worthy of the occasion and the women we are celebrating!

In this article, we'll look at Biblical examples of women who displayed one or more of these characteristics in their lives and assemble 7 sermon outlines to honor mothers alike today.

Mary at Jesus's Feet

"Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. 40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. 41 And Jesus answered and said unto5 her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: 42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her." - Luke 10:38-42

What to cover in this sermon:

• Resisting Distractions: Mary's example challenges us to resist the distractions and demands of the world that pull us away from spending quality time with God.
• Seeking Relationship over Busyness: Mary's decision to sit at Jesus' feet reflects her desire for an intimate relationship with Jesus, more than entertaining the distractions of busyness and tasks.
• Choosing the "Good Part": Jesus commends Mary for choosing the "good part" indicating that prioritizing your relationship with God should have preeminence over all things in your life. This reminds us to evaluate our priorities and ensure that our focus remains on what truly matters in our walk with Christ.
• Humility and Teachability: Mary demonstrates humility and teachability by positioning herself as a learner at Jesus' feet. Her willingness to humble herself and receive instruction from Jesus serves as a model for us as disciples of Christ.

Example Illustration:

Overall, Mary's example in Luke 10:38-42 ought to encourage us to prioritize our relationship with God, actively engage in His Word, and resist the distractions of this world. Just as Mary humbled herself at the Lord's feet, we too should humble ourselves before the Lord, and receive instruction from His Word.

This could be listening attentively when our pastor is preaching, in our own personal Bible studies, or our one-on-one discipleship relationships.

Finding Strength and Resilience in the Life of Ruth

"And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman. 10 And he said, Blessed be thou of the Lord, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich. 11 And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman." - Ruth 3:9-11

What to cover in this sermon:

• Faithful Obedience: Ruth demonstrates faithful obedience to Naomi's instructions, despite the potential risks and uncertainties involved. This teaches us the importance of obedience in our walk with God, even when the path ahead seems uncertain.
• Courage and Initiative: Ruth exhibits courage and initiative by taking proactive steps to secure her future and Naomi's well-being. Instead of waiting for circumstances to suddenly change, she takes action by approaching Boaz and expressing her desire to be redeemed. This teaches us the value of courageously stepping out in faith and taking the initiative to pursue God's purposes for our lives.
• Wisdom and Discernment: Ruth conducts her actions with wisdom and discernment in her interactions with Boaz. She approaches him respectfully, knowing the cultural norms and customs of the times. This teaches us the importance of exercising wisdom and discernment in our interactions and relationships with others.
• Trust in God's Provision: Ruth's actions reflect her trust in God to take care of her. Despite facing challenging circumstances as a foreign widow in a foreign land, she remains steadfast in her faith in God. This teaches us to rely on God's faithfulness, even in the midst of difficult situations.

Example Illustration:

Ruth's example should inspire us to embody faithful obedience, humility, and courage, despite the challenges we face.

Challenge listeners to examine their hearts and lives, where they haven't fully trusted in God's provision and faithfulness. Whether this may be navigating family struggles, financial debt, or relationship problems, God is faithful.

From Doubt to Faith: Sarah's Motherhood Journey

"Now Abraham and Sarah were old and well stricken in age; and it ceased to be with Sarah after the manner of women. 12 Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also? 13 And the Lord said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old? 14 Is any thing too hard for the Lord? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son. 15 Then Sarah denied, saying, I laughed not; for she was afraid. And he said, Nay; but thou didst laugh." - Genesis 18:11-15

What to cover in this sermon: 

• Faith and Trust: Both Sara and Abraham demonstrated unwavering faith and trust in each other and their relationship with God. This can teach mothers the importance of having faith in their families and trusting God, even in uncertain times. 
• Humility and Contentment: Sarah and Abraham showed humility and contentment in their relationship with each other and with God. 
• Leadership and Guidance: Abraham provided leadership and guidance for his family, leading them in the faith. Sarah trusted God's provision and his plan for her family. This can encourage mothers to lead their children to submit to their husbands and ultimately unto the Lord in all that they do. 
• Legacy of Faith: Sara and Abraham left behind a legacy of faith that endured for generations. This can inspire mothers to think about the legacy they want to leave for their children and the importance of passing down faith in God and resilience.

Example Illustration:

Maybe you've been praying for something for a long, long time. For some maybe it's the perfect husband, the best job, or like Sarah a child to call your own.

Sarah's example should teach us to continually walk in faith, even if it seems as if God has not answered our prayer.

Listeners should reflect on God's faithfulness and remember nothing is too hard for the Lord. His plan and His timing are better than anything we could imagine.

Following in the Footsteps of Rebekah

"And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. 59 And they sent away Rebekah their sister, and her nurse, and Abraham's servant, and his men. 60 And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou art our sister, be thou the mother of thousands of millions, and let thy seed possess the gate of those which hate them. 61 And Rebekah arose, and her damsels, and they rode upon the camels, and followed the man: and the servant took Rebekah, and went his way. 62 And Isaac came from the way of the well Lahairoi; for he dwelt in the south country. 63 And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, the camels were coming. 64 And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel. 65 For she had said unto the servant, What man is this that walketh in the field to meet us? And the servant had said, It is my master: therefore she took a vail, and covered herself. 66 And the servant told Isaac all things that he had done. 67 And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother's death." - Genesis 24:58-67

What to cover in this sermon:

• Faith and Trust in God's Plan: Rebekah's readiness to leave her family and homeland to marry Isaac shows her faith and trust in God's plan for her life.
• Attributes of Rebekah: Willingness to go wherever God was leading ("I will go."), lifted up her eyes for direction from God ("And Rebekah lifted up her eyes,"), and comforted her husband ("Isaac was comforted after his mother's death.").
• Attributes of Isaac: Prioritized time in God's Word ("And Isaac came from the way of the well..."), witnessed to others in the field (the world) ("And Isaac went out to meditate in the field"), and lifted up his eyes for direction from the Lord ("and he lifted up his eyes, and saw,").
• Role of Rebekah: Rebekah left her family and homeland and cleaved unto her husband, Isaac. She was now his helpmeet and comforted him as he grieved his mother's death. This ought to inspire mothers to be a source of peace and comfort in their homes and help carry the emotional weight in the lives of their husbands and children.

Example Illustration:

As we celebrate Mother's Day, let us remember the legacy of Rebekah and draw inspiration from her example. Encourage mothers to cultivate the same unwavering faith, resilience, and trust in God's promises in our own lives.

Rebekah's life was a testament to God's faithfulness; challenging listeners to be able to say the same about their own life.

Esther's Triumph: Encouragement for Mother's Facing Adversity

"And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti." - Esther 2:17

"...and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish." - Esther 4:16b

"Then Esther the queen answered and said, If I have found favour in thy sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request: For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish. But if we had been sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue, although the enemy could not countervail the king's damage." - Esther 7:3-4

"As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of feasting and joy, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor." - Esther 9:22

What to cover in this sermon:

• Faithfulness to God's Calling: Despite the risks involved, Esther remained faithful to her identity and heritage as a Jew. She obeyed Mordecai's guidance and trusted in providence throughout her journey.
• Courage in the Face of Adversity: Esther showed remarkable courage when she risked her life by approaching the king uninvited to plead for the safety of her people. Mothers can learn from Esther's bravery in facing difficult circumstances and standing up for what is right, even when it is challenging.
• Wisdom in Decision-Making: Esther demonstrated wisdom in her interaction with the king and in her strategic approach to revealing Haman's evil intentions. Mothers can learn from Esther's example in their decision-making processes, especially when facing situations that affect their families.
• Trusting in God's Timing: Throughout Esther's story, we see evidence of God's timing at work. Even when the circumstances seemed dire, God orchestrated events to bring about deliverance for His people. Mothers can learn to trust in God's timing, even when they cannot see the full picture of His plan.

Example Illustration:

The only example illustration you will need is the VeggieTales Full Episode: The Girl Who Became Queen!

Hospitality and Service: Lessons from the Home of Priscilla and Aquila

"Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:" - Romans 16:3

"And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them." - Acts 18:2

"And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly." - Acts 18:26

What to cover in this sermon:

• Partnering in Ministry: Priscilla and Aquila worked together as a team in ministry, illustrating the power of partnership within marriage. This can serve as encouragement for mothers to partner with their spouses in raising children, serving their communities, and growing in their faith together.
• Boldness in Sharing the Gospel: Priscilla and Aquila were not afraid to share their faith and engage in conversations about the gospel, as seen in their interactions with Apollos. This can inspire mothers to boldly share their faith with their families, friends, and communities.
• Hospitality and Generosity: Priscilla and Aquilla were known for their hospitality, opening their home to fellow believers and even risking their lives for others (Romans 16:4). Mothers can learn from Priscilla's example of generosity, creating welcoming and nurturing environments for their families and others.
• Faithfulness in Adversity: Priscilla and Aquila faced challenges and persecution for their faith, but they remained steadfast in their commitment to Christ and His mission. This can encourage mothers to persevere in their faith amidst trials, trusting in God's faithfulness and provision.

Example Illustration:

Encourage mothers to follow Priscilla's example and open up their home for other women's Bible studies or prepare a room for missionaries perhaps.

If this isn't feasible due to the lack of space, or for another reason, creating a nurturing home for their families should remain of utmost importance.

A Virtuous Woman

"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. 12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. 13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. 14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. 15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. 16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. 17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. 18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. 19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. 20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. 21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. 22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. 23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. 24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. 25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. 26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. 27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. 28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. 29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. 30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth 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 

What to cover in this sermon: 

• Attributes of a Virtuous Woman: 1. The heart of her husband safely trusts her 2. She will do good unto her husband all the days of her life 3. She works willingly with her hands, providing for her family 4. She tends to the field and bears fruit 5. She stretches her hand out to the poor and needy 6. She prepares clothes for her household 7. She speaks with wisdom and kindness 8. Her children bless her, her husband praises her 9. She fears the Lord 10. Her own works will praise her in the gates
• Husband and Wife Picture Christ and the Church: The virtuous woman is a picture of the bride of Christ or the Church, and the attributes she displays towards her husband are to be how she conducts herself towards her Lord. 
• Strive to be a Virtuous Woman: The Virtuous woman strives to be holy and righteous, preparing her wedding dress, caring and tending to her household, seeing that her children grow up in the Lord, being the helpmeet for her husband, and looking to the day of the Lord. 

Example Illustration:

Ruth is namely the only mentioned virtuous woman in the Bible. Remember, Ruth was a woman who turned away from her homeland and all she knew to follow after God.

Mothers can learn from her example of self-sacrifice for God's favor in the end. We can never dismiss the power of a life lived out in love for God and others.

TIPS FOR CRAFTING IMPACTFUL MOTHER'S DAY SERMONS

• Choose a Relevant Theme: Select a theme or topic that is relevant to mothers and aligns with the purpose of Mother's Day. This could include stories of mothers in the Bible, or passages such as Proverbs 31 illustrating a virtuous woman.
• Grounded in Scripture: Ground your sermon in Scripture, particularly passages that highlight the roles and qualities of Godly mothers and leaders.
• Share Personal Stories: Incorporate personal testimonies, or stories from mothers in your congregation to make the message relatable and authentic. This helps create a connection with the listeners and demonstrates empathy and understanding.
• End with a Call to Action: Conclude the sermon with a call to action, inviting mothers to respond in faith, gratitude, or commitment to God and their families.

With Love and Gratitude: Wrapping Up Mother's Day

From the selfless devotion of mothers like Mary to the strength and resilience of women like Ruth and Esther, the Bible has a plethora of narratives that encourage us to understand the profound role of mothers in God's plan. As we reflect on this day, may we be inspired to honor and cherish the time spent with mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures in our lives not just on this important day, but every day, recognizing the immeasurable blessing they are to us all.

*Fine print: For all you guys out there, it's always the second Sunday in May. Mother's Day is on May 9.

P.S Be sure to thank your mom for teaching you to always read the fine print :-)

Matt Church Engagement