The second Sunday of May is Mother’s Day, a time to honor the wisdom and love of mothers. Though the recent election in the Philippines has passed, the lessons from a godly mother remain timeless.
As we reflect on the choices we made and the leaders we’ve chosen, what can we learn from mothers to guide us as citizens and Christians moving forward?
Let us turn to Proverbs 31. While we often focus on the “virtuous woman,” the chapter begins with a mother’s voice – a queen-mother teaching her son, King Lemuel, how to lead with wisdom. Her words are bold, timeless, and relevant not only for kings but for all of us as we navigate our responsibilities in a democratic society.
Let us explore what a godly mother teaches her son and how her wisdom can shape our hearts as we reflect on our nation’s choices.
First, reject corruption and self-indulgence.
Proverbs 31:3 – “Do not spend your strength on women, your vigor on those who ruin kings.”
King Lemuel’s mother warns her son to guard against indulgence and fleeting pleasures, emphasizing that character matters more than charm.
A mother teaches her child: “Guard your heart. Don’t let your desires ruin your destiny.” Similarly, as citizens, we must hold our leaders accountable to this standard.
In the election, we had the chance to choose leaders. Now, we must pray for and support those who demonstrate integrity, humility, and faithfulness, while challenging those who are swayed by arrogance or self-interest.
A mother’s voice says, “Don’t give your strength to those who will destroy you.” Let us continue to demand leaders who prioritize the nation’s good over personal gain.
Second, defend the voiceless and the vulnerable.
Proverbs 31:8-9: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
This is one of the clearest calls in Scripture for justice in leadership. The queen-mother teaches her son that true leadership is not about power but about responsibility to the weak.
The poor, the voiceless, and the vulnerable must be protected through just decisions and compassionate governance. This reflects the covenantal justice of the Old Testament.
Mothers naturally advocate for their children. They stand up for the bullied, defend the oppressed, and teach kindness to the needy.
Why? Because love is protective. King Lemuel’s mother instructs: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
Though the election is over, our responsibility continues. We must hold our leaders accountable to protect the unborn, the elderly, the poor, the workers, and the children. As citizens, we can still speak for the voiceless—through prayer, advocacy, and active engagement.
Ask: “Are our leaders defending the rights of the vulnerable? Are they listening to the marginalized?” Let us support and challenge them to uphold justice, just as a mother defends her child.
As we move forward after the election, may we carry the wisdom of mothers in our hearts—not only their love but their call to integrity and justice. | NWI
