by Glynisia Yeo

When we recall the heroes of faith in the Bible, we usually think of someone like Abraham, King David, the apostle Paul or even the beloved disciple, John. But the Bible is also filled with accounts of women of faith; mothers that God used as instruments to accomplish His will on earth and to be a channel of blessing to their families.

There was Sarah, who faced a personal test of faith when a son was promised to her at the age of 90! Although she laughed within herself in disbelief (Gen. 18:11, 12), God did not chastise her but encouraged her as He restored her faith in Him ("Is anything too hard for the Lord?"). Isaac was born exactly on the day that God promised.

In the book of 1 Samuel, Hannah had to bear the brunt of scorn and humiliation in her community because she was barren for many years. She must have endured a painful season and felt forgotten by God, but the Lord heard her prayer and blessed her with a son (1 Sam. 1:11). In return, Hannah committed her child to the service of the temple and made a conscious decision to dedicate him to Jehovah God.

Then there was Mary, specially chosen to be the mother of Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior of the whole world. Knowing this truth and the magnitude of His purpose on earth (i.e. His death and resurrection), Mary probably experienced moments of uncertainty and loneliness. But God's Word (Luke 1:29-37) became her foundation and strength.  

While their individual stories are different, one thing we know for sure is their resilience in the face of "conflict," be it emotional or biological. Yet what is more important is discovering how their responses to those challenges eventually charted the course of history:

Sarah believed God for the impossible and her son Isaac became one of the forefathers of the nation of Israel from where the seed of the Christian faith was born. Hannah gave birth to Samuel, who from a young age, was called by the Lord into ministry and was recognized as a highly-esteemed prophet of God. Mary held on to God's word and became instrumental in bringing our Messiah and Savior, Jesus Christ, into the world. These three mothers faced a situation that involved their children. As a result, their actions influenced the destinies of their children.

Mothers share a special bond with their children, such that they would devote their lives to ensure their li'l ones succeed on earth. You can probably attest to the many instances in time past when your own mother made sacrifices just so that you could enjoy that "extra" benefit in life.

Just as she valued you and demonstrated her love for you through her time, effort and money, let's appreciate all the mothers and honor the women that God has placed in our lives ... She deserves to be celebrated!