When I was a little girl, one of my favorite things to do was to look through my mother’s purse.  I loved that she let me do this!  It was probably to keep me occupied or quiet when it was needed.  She didn’t seem worried that I would lose something or mess it up. 

When she passed away, I inherited her purses.  It was a lot different when I looked inside her purse this time.  I found objects she carried with her that reminded me of the values she held dear to her heart. 

Upon opening one of her purses after her passing, the first thing I found was a small Bible.  She loved reading God’s Word!  The pages were worn and many of the verses were underlined from sermons and Bible studies she heard.  Her love for God’s Word greatly influenced my life; I wanted to obey His Word and live for Him because of her example.

Psalm 119:11, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
Psalm 119:105, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he shall go and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Continuing to explore her handbag, the change purse I found reminded me of her generosity and giving spirit to those in need.  I experienced her giving in my own life.   Even though she worked at the hospital as a nurse, she still gave her time and money for me by taking me to piano lessons, church events, Youth Camp, Youth Rallies and later Texas Bible College, so I would be with other Christian young people.  I am so grateful because I gained lifetime friends through her sacrifices. 

Inside one of her purses I also found a beautiful handkerchief with which she wiped her tears while praying for her family, church family and lost souls.  Prayer was a daily routine in her life.  She taught me that prayer was the answer for every situation!  Everyone who knew her speaks of what a prayer warrior she was. 

One last item I discovered was a mirror.  The mirror represents the reflection of God’s love my mother poured out to me and my family.  She loved us with an unconditional love.  Love is the greatest quality mothers should strive for.  All other qualities are hinged upon how we show our love to our children and others. 
“As the Father loved me, I also loved you; abide in My love…This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” 
(John 15:9, 12)

Everything a mother says or does will influence her children.  It is so important that we pass down Godly values of reading God’s Word and living according to the scriptures – generous giving, prayer, and showing the love of God to our children and others.