Many times throughout the years,
I have prayed to the Lord in tears,
seeking His help -- not any other --
for He shows me how to be a mother.
He alone has the wisdom I seek
through a long and fretful week
when a child's problems are bigger than life
and her days are cumbered with strife.

When I'm faced with decisions and torn in two,
only my Lord knows what I should do.
He tells me when to use "the *rod"
to reinforce the love of God.
When she needs more of my time -- of me,
God is the One who helps me to see.
Sometimes it's patience and mercy I need;
then to the God of all love, I plead.
Sometimes, the strength to sit through the night,
assuring a sick one that she'll be all right.

And there are times when a classmate is rude,
when hateful words, like poisoned food,
cause my youngster to cry in pain.
Together, we call on God's holy Name.
Mother holds her hand, God holds her heart
as our prayer we haltingly start.
And the greatest joy a mother sees
is when her child, on her knees,
leaves her troubles in God's care
as mother and daughter join in prayer.

Pity the mother who doesn't pray,
who doesn't know Jesus as Savior today!
For it is the Lord -- not any other --
He alone can make you a worthy mother.
He holds the key to training your girl,
He'll give you peace in this turbulent world.
If you are burdened, but peace you can't find,
You're longing for hope, and rest for your mind,
Call on the Savior, invite Jesus in,
He'll take all your burdens, forgive all your sin.
Then, trusting in Jesus as Savior and Lord,
learning each day to live by His Word,
following Him as in each step He leads,
You'll be the mother that your daughter needs!

* "the rod" signifies discipline

"Children are a heritage from the Lord; 
offspring a reward from Him."
Psalm 127:3 NIV