Looking for an inspiring Mother’s Day lesson? The Bible offers numerous exceptional options. The narratives of these 8 famous mothers from the Bible celebrate motherhood while imparting profound lessons that resonate with children and adults alike.
Sarah: A Testament to Patient Faith
Genesis 17:15-21; 18:9-15; 21:1-7
One famous mother from the Bible to consider teaching about is Sarah, who was married to Abraham. She wanted to be a mom and waited many years for it. This lesson can help kids think about their caretakers and be thankful for their desire to love them. One great example to tie into this lesson is an adoption story. While Sarah did end up getting pregnant, not every mother can do so. Many mothers desire to have a child on their own, so they choose adoption.
Hagar: A Lesson in Providence and Strength
Genesis 16; 21:8-21
Another mother in the Bible is Hagar. She was unmarried, and many children may be able to relate to this if their parent is a single parent raising them alone or with help from other family members. Hagar is a great story of a mother who endured suffering and continued to look out for the best interest of her child.
Rebekah: A Study in the Consequences of Our Choices
Genesis 24; 25:19-34; 27
Rebekah's journey from a young woman chosen to be Isaac's wife to a mother making complex decisions for her sons, Jacob and Esau, highlights the impact of our choices. Her story can help children understand the importance of seeking wisdom and the consequences of favoritism and deception.
Jochebed: A Story of Courageous Love
Exodus 2:1-10
Another wonderful Mother’s Day Bible story is the story of Jochebed, Moses’ mom. This is a story of a mom who was able to raise her son for a while, but then he was taken from her, and she could not be with him. It is a story of love but also heartbreak. This can help kids see that even though they can’t always be with their mother, it doesn’t mean that they are loved any less.
Explore more of Jochebed’s story in our Sunday School lesson Super Mom. Also available for preschool students.
Naomi: A Testament to Redemption in Loss
Ruth 1-4
Naomi's life was filled with loss, but her relationship with Ruth, her daughter-in-law, teaches us about loyalty, love, and the ways God can redeem and bring joy out of sorrow. This famous mother from the Bible can encourage children to value their relationships and see how God works through them to bring healing and hope.
Hannah: A Lesson in Perseverance
1 Samuel 1-2:10
Hannah's deep longing for a child led her to pray and make vows to God earnestly. Her eventual joy in bearing Samuel teaches the power of perseverance in prayer and the dedication of our gifts to God's service. Her story can inspire children to bring their wishes to God and trust in His plan.
Supplement your lesson with our free Hannah coloring page.
Mary: An Example of Obedience and Sacrifice
Luke 1:26-56; 2:1-52; John 19:25-27
Perhaps the most famous mother in the Bible, Jesus’ mother, Mary, is another excellent choice for a lesson. Mary endured hardships to keep Jesus safe as a baby and even supported her son in His ministry as an adult. This lesson can help kids think about their mothers or other relatives and the sacrifices they have made for them.
Supplement your lesson with our free Mary coloring page.
Elizabeth: A Story of Joy
Luke 1:5-80
Elizabeth's joy upon conceiving John the Baptist in her later years, and her role in the early life of Jesus, highlight the beauty of finding joy in God's plan for our lives, no matter how unexpected. Her story encourages children to find happiness in God's surprises and the importance of community and support among family and friends.
Celebrate Motherhood
Focusing on any of these 8 famous mothers from the Bible can enrich your children’s church Mother's Day discussions, helping children to see the varied and profound ways mothers and mother figures are portrayed in the Bible. These stories are not just lessons; they are celebrations of the enduring love, strength, and wisdom of mothers everywhere.
Additional Children’s Ministry Resources
- Famous Moms from the Bible: Dive deeper into the stories of Rebekah, Jochebed, and Mary
- Wonder Women: An 8-Week Children’s Ministry Curriculum, featuring lessons on the remarkable lives of Naomi, Hannah, and others.
