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Twenty years ago, a brain hemorrhage changed my life forever, leaving me without the use of my left side. In the dark days of recovery, it wasn’t just doctors and my faith that sustained me—it was the echoes of my mother’s voice and the gentle spirit she modeled. I want to share with you some Biblical lessons on kindness I learned from my mother. She instilled in me the strength of an overcomer.
As Mother’s Day 2026 approaches, I want to share her three lessons of kindness that helped me survive my hardest season.
The Power of a Soft Answer
My heart fills with gratitude for the wonderful mother God gave me. She lived out Proverbs 15:1 daily: A soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. Her kindness and gentle spirit left a legacy that still encourages me today. She could always find something to be thankful for.
In my time of recovery, there were so many negatives I could have focused on, but I chose to find the things I was thankful for. We still had three children at home, and I was so grateful I didn’t leave them—or my husband—to walk that path alone. I was thankful to be alive! When I chose to think on God’s mercy rather than my own loss, it gave me the strength to be an overcomer.
She was a good woman who showed love through her daily actions—always caring for others, never speaking a harsh word or gossiping about anyone.
In this season of celebrating mothers, I thank the Lord beccause I had my mother and a beautiful loving mother-in-law, as well. One who shared these same traits as my mother. One who would squeal and dance in place when she opened a present you gave her. She got so excited no matter what it was. It could be the smallest thing but it didn’t matter. She was rejoicing because someone loved her enough to give her a gift. How blessed I am to have had them.
I want to share some of the simple yet powerful lessons my mother taught me—lessons that carried me through my own deep struggles. Lessons I believe can bring hope and strength to anyone walking through hard times right now.
Biblical Lessons on Kindness
My Mother was a friend to me and my friends. She showed us the ministry of hospitality. My dad was an over-the-road truck driver, it was often just my mom and I at home. She became much more than a mother to me—she was a true friend. My girlfriends loved coming to our house and spending time there. They felt so comfortable, many of them even called her “Mom.”
She welcomed them with open arms, listened to their stories, and made our home a safe and happy place. Without even realizing it, she became an example to all of us—not just through words, but through her kindness, her peaceful spirit, and the way she cared for others. Oh, and there was always plenty of things she baked for our fun times. Often as the door opened the smell of something she had yet to take out of the oven filled the house. I can still hear the comments of ‘yum, that smells sooo good!’ Even today, I hear from some of those childhood friends who still remember how special my mom made them feel.
When the hemorrhage took away my independence and my ability to move as I once did, I found myself needing the ‘safe place’ my mother had always provided. This time, it wasn’t a physical house, but the sanctuary she had built in my heart.
Just as she welcomed my friends with open arms, I had to learn to welcome my new, difficult reality with a peaceful spirit. Even when my body felt like a ‘hard place,’ to be I remembered her example of creating warmth and kindness in every circumstance. She taught me that hospitality isn’t just about a clean house or baked goods—it’s about making space for peace, even in the middle of a storm.
When I think of how kind and hospitable she was to everyone, this verse comes to mind. Ephesians 4:32
A mother’s love is our first lesson of kindness and grace. In my life through my mother, mother-in-law, and my two grandmother’s I have a legacy of love passed down through generations.
Guarding the Tongue, Her Gentle Words
I heard many times through my years of growing up. “If you don’t have something good to say, don’t say anything at all.” I remember saying this to my own children as they were growing up. It’s a wonderfully powerful thing to keep in mind as we go through life.
In the years following my hemorrhage, guarding my tongue took on a new meaning. There were days when frustration over my left side would boil up, and it would have been so easy to let bitter or complaining words fly. But I remembered my mother’s voice. I realized that ‘not saying anything at all’ wasn’t just about avoiding gossip—it was about not letting my pain dictate my words. I had to learn to use my voice to speak life over my situation, even when my body felt broken. It is a powerful thing to realize that while I couldn’t control my physical movement, I could still control the grace in my speech.
This image pairs the vastness of the ocean and sky with the timeless truth of Leviticus 19:16. It serves as a powerful reminder to guard our tongues and actions, ensuring we lift up rather than tear down.
This picture is perfect for reflecting on the call to live with integrity, love, and respect for others, just as God commands.
Leviticus 19:16 warns us not to go about as slanders or to stand idly by. In my recovery, I learned that we can ‘slander’ our own hope if we aren’t careful with our words. Just like the vast, peaceful ocean in this image, God’s commands are there to keep us steady. When we choose to lift others up rather than tear down—even when we are hurting—we are living with the integrity God calls us to.
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What is a phrase your mother used to say that still sticks with you today? Maybe a memory that speaks to you and you still rely on today? A memory you have of her to honor her today?
Closing Call of Hope
This Mother’s Day, I know not everyone has warm memories to hold onto. Some of you may be grieving the loss of your mother, or perhaps your relationship with her was painful. Others may be walking through seasons of loneliness, heartache, or even despair—feeling like hope is out of reach.
But here’s the truth: You are not alone. God sees you, He loves you, and He longs to be your comfort and strength. If you’re hurting today, I want to gently invite you to lean on Him. If you’ve never known His peace, I urge you to turn to Him now. He is the Father to the fatherless, the Healer of broken hearts, and the One who can carry you through even the darkest valleys.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
— Matthew 11:28
Call on Jesus and then nothing can separate you from His love. He will never leave you.
If you’re struggling, take a moment to whisper a prayer, to open your heart, or to simply say, "Jesus, I need You." He is waiting, arms wide open, ready to hold you up when you can’t stand on your own.
You are loved. You are seen. And there is hope—in Him.
He is here waiting for you to ask Him to help you.
If you don't know how to ask or need help with this go here: https://debbiesilvey.com/gods-plan-of-salvation/
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I found a song that perfectly captures this feeling of leaning on His grace when our own words or strength fail us. I hope it blesses you as much as it has blessed me.
I’d love to pray for you—is there a hard time you’re walking through where you need a little extra encouragement? If you want a private conversation use the first form below.
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