Satan's most deadly attack is being waged
against motherhood. He attempts to discourage mothers from fulfilling
the greatest and most rewarding work they can do. I am always
impressed with the mothers who bring their babies and small children
to gospel meetings, congregational sings, and ladies' days. It
is very obvious these young mothers are motivated by a love for
God and a devotion to their children.
We have many examples of faithful mothers recorded
in the Bible, but, when the term "devotion" is used,
I cannot help but think of Rizpah. Rizpah is a little known character
in the Old Testament. Many lessons can be gleaned from this courageous
woman, but I would like to focus on the devotion she had for her
two sons.
We read of Rizpah in 2 Samuel. At the beginning
of chapter 21, we find the land plagued with a three-year famine.
David realized the plague would continue until he made things
right with the Gibeonites, whom Saul had tried to drive from the
land years before. The Gibeonites requested seven descendents
of Saul be handed over to them. David granted the request, and
the Gibeonites killed these men and left their bodies on the mountain.
According to verse 8, two of these men were the sons of Rizpah.
Beginning in verse 10, we read of the devotion
of Rizpah to her sons. "And Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took
sackcloth, and spread it for her upon the rock, from the beginning
of harvest until water dropped upon them out of heaven, and suffered
neither the birds of the air to rest on them by day, nor the beasts
of the field by night." Rizpah mourned for her sons day and
night. She spread sackcloth upon a rock and was vigilant in her
quest to keep the birds of the air and wild animals away from
the bodies. Rizpah sat by the bodies from the beginning of the
barley harvest until water dropped upon them out of heaven, which
was probably several months later.
In verse 11, we find David hearing of Rizpah's
courageous actions. He was so touched by her devotion that he
ordered the bodies removed from the mountain and buried in the
sepulchre of Kish, the father of Saul.
May we ever enjoy the blessing of motherhood,
giving time and attention to both the physical and spiritual growth
of our children. May we, as mothers, continue to grow spiritually,
asking for patience and understanding, as we have opportunities
to make wise choices and decisions in our God-given roles.
As we strive to leave a lasting influence on our
children, may we ever remember the genuineness of Rizpah's love,
courage, and devotion to hers. Rt. 1, Box 109-A, Rivesville, WV
26588.