Proverbs 31:1-9 Mother's Day

 Outline: 

The godly wisdom of a Mother is valuable for a king. (1) 

The heart of a Mother is one of constant concern. (2) 

The godly wisdom of a Mother warns against sinful pleasures that harm. (3) 

The godly wisdom of a Mother warns against self-centred indulgence. (4-5) 

The godly wisdom of a Mother teaches care for those perishing and in misery. (6-7) 

The godly wisdom of a Mother teaches advocacy for the poor and needy. (8-9)  

Jesus is the godly King we need. 

Home group questions:

1.  As the sermon was about Mother’s Day, spend a bit of time, if you are comfortable doing so, discussing your relationship with your mother and how she influenced your life and faith. Has there been anyone else who has been a “spiritual mother” in your life? Why is it important that we foster the idea that the church is a family, as Jesus taught, and how could we do that better as a church? 
2.  In verse 2, there is a repeated plea. How does this reflect a mother’s heart? In what ways does this help you better understand God’s heart when we wander or ignore His Word? 
3.  In verses 3–5, Lemuel’s mother warns against self-centred, sinful indulgence that destroys, and she encourages self-control for the sake of obedience to the law and for the sake of the afflicted. What does this tell us about the believer’s mindset, and how can we encourage ourselves and young believers to live with this mindset? 
4.  In verses 6–9, Lemuel is told to use his resources to ease the suffering of those who are perishing and living in poverty, and to “open your mouth for the mute” and defend the poor and needy. What does this tell us about where believers should focus their ministry? Why do you think there is such an emphasis placed on kings and believers? What might that look like for you personally today, and how could we as a church do this? 
5.  How does Jesus fulfil the picture of the perfect king presented in this passage? 
6.  Many mothers feel guilt and regret over past mistakes, or feel that they should have done more or done better. How would you encourage a mum who expresses these feelings? More broadly, how do we hold together the responsibility to teach and model godly wisdom with the truth that we are not responsible for other people’s choices? Where does that tension appear in your own relationships?