A Special Mother's Day Message

EDITOR'S NOTE: In April 2024, North Carolina Assemblies of God Superintendent Rick Ross was appointed to serve as the general treasurer for the General Council of the Assemblies of God. His wife, Susan, who has been a devoted wife, mother, ordained minister, and ministry partner, shares a special Mother’s Day encouragement.

Although I had always dreamed of four children, after we had our son, Derrick, and our daughter, Karissa, we realized we would be outnumbered with four. Instead of having more children, we put our whole selves into forming the two that God had given us to be contributing citizens of the kingdom of God and our great country. However, my dream of having four children eventually came true when our children’s spouses joined the family.

I loved being a mother to them. I loved teaching them the ways of the Lord. I loved celebrating the everyday moments and simple joys of life. The world is often angry and aggressive, and I felt so blessed to be able to provide a home for my family where laughter, love, and celebration were bountiful.

I believe mothers are the influencers of atmosphere and I chose to intentionally cultivate an atmosphere of joy.

Looking back, I am so grateful for the memories I have playing, exploring, and learning creatively with my children. These are priceless treasures to me.

One of my favorite verses about motherhood comes from Proverbs 31:25-26, which says, “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future” (NLT). I believe this passage encourages mothers to have a sense of humor, to fight hard to hold onto joy, and to trust God to carry the weightiness of the responsibilities that come with raising children.

I owe a lot of who I am as a mom to my mother, Janice Hastie, who had many responsibilities to manage but chose to look joyfully at life as a great adventure. And now, as I delight in the role of “Gigi” to six grandchildren, I understand even more clearly the importance of a godly mother.

The Bible gives some insight into the importance of this role in Proverbs 1:8-9. It says, “Pay close attention, my child, to your father’s wise words and never forget your mother’s instructions. For their insight will bring you success, adorning you with grace-filled thoughts and give you reins to guide your decisions (TPT).”

Mothers are influential. It is the intentional and purposeful guidance that we give to our children that God uses to help bring success and right-thinking to our kids in a confusing and chaotic world. We are strategically placed to bring a healthy, biblical perspective to life’s common challenges.

Just as vital as the advice we give is the listening ear we offer. This loving, nurturing place where our children feel free to share their highs and lows allows us to pray and speak over their lives in ways that God will use to His glory.

Yet one of the things the Enemy is using to attack mothers today is technology. Although it has benefits and appropriate uses, the distractions and comparisons it causes robs mothers, and families, of peace. I urge us, as mothers, not to miss the everyday moments by not being fully present. Look into your child’s eyes and connect with them.

Motherhood is not an easy calling. So, remember to take time to care for yourself throughout the day as well. I’ve always been a fan of the “five-minute mental vacation.” When I’m juggling a busy day and I need to get refreshed and refocused, I will take five minutes and do something simple, such as having a cup of tea and reading a short article (like you’re doing now). These little breaks don’t cost anything but can be priceless in the midst of all the things your day demands.

For those that are transitioning to the “empty nest” phase of life, this can be a tough season. I’d encourage you, if you are in this season or it is quickly approaching, to begin to find activities, hobbies, or ministry opportunities to help fill some of your once occupied time.

Be aware that your relationship with your child(ren) is about to change, but it brings with it new joys. This is also often the season that young adult children begin to realize just how smart their moms actually are; this is what we’ve been waiting for!

And if you are still waiting to step into the role of “mom,” give what you have to those the Lord has put in your life and continue to wait expectantly. The Lord hears our prayers, knows our deepest desires, and is close to our broken hearts, even when it feels like He is a million miles away.

I pray that as you celebrate and are celebrated, you remember the importance of your role in the lives of your children and are filled with the supernatural joy of the Holy Spirit as you walk along the path of motherhood. May the Lord’s blessing and favor rest mightily upon you. Happy Mother’s Day!