Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her
Proverbs 31:28
This week I attended a call with other high-level decision makers of significant NGO's and nonprofits where we were asked to share what we were thankful for in 2024. I was at a disadvantage having been asked to go first and primarily discussed how proud I am of our team, how far we've come, and how grateful I am for our future.
After me, CEOs instead shared their stats, listed their numbers that all signified a face, and shared the incredible work they've accomplished as measurable. "Praise God for X many baptisms, X many moms saved from abortion, X many women leaving harmful situations." One after the other, I joined in the absolute joy of God granting such success to so many lives via the efforts of these faithful women who I consider friends, but also mentors.
I got off the call and asked the Lord how we quantify what we do here at Able Moms? How do we know our ministry is really making a difference in the lives of those we pray for and walk alongside? The answer I sensed was really simple. It is the essence of our mission:
Because Moms Matter.
If I asked you to think of your own mother, it would conjure feelings of absolute bliss, unbearable grief, or a mix of both. There is no escaping that mothers make an indelible imprint in the lives of their children. Because we will make a memorable impression one way or the other - either good or bad - it's inevitable. And just like the years my husband and I spent as youth pastors, it wasn't until decades later we recognized the fruit of what we planted. Because motherhood that matters takes time.
The word ‘arise’ of Proverbs 31:28, "her children arise and call her blessed" insinuates longevity based on its original Hebrew ‘quwm’. Likely, her children aren't bouncing out of bed and singing her praises every morning (at least not daily in my home), and giving immediate return on her consistent investments as a mother. Rather, "arise" means her children will look over their shoulder as they grow into adulthood and acknowledge from a mature perspective just how incredible their mom is. Motherhood that matters is measured in moments, not necessarily numbers.
This surely does not mean we don't have a clear mission here at AMI that we continually evaluate like my wise colleagues; we foster moms who want to matter; capable, unshakable, and memorable moms. In fact, more than ever within our ministry we are evaluating our impact using the wisdom of goal-setting, plans to accomplish these, and accountability that produces (Matthew 25:24-30). But, just like your current mission as mothers, we do not grow weary when the fruit has not ripened enough to be counted in the bushel. Like you, we keep planting seeds. Keep tending. Keep being faithful.
Our harvest will be reaped - this is promised. So, Able Mom, plant well, plant often, and with intention so that your children "arise" and bless you. Mother able because it matters.
Your Fellow Able Mom,
Amanda
Abba, We thank you for the gift of being a mother. Help us to rest in the capabilities that you've given us and remain faithful. Motherhood is playing the long game and many times our day to day can feel tiresome, but God I thank you that you are with us every step of the way. Amen
Connect with Amanda:
Instagram: @amanda_florczykowski
Website: www.amandaflo.com
Email: amanda@ablemoms.org
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