Relationships with mother-in-laws can be tricky, but they don’t have to be difficult. Whether you’re navigating boundaries or building a closer bond, understanding and mutual respect are key to creating harmony within the family. After all, you both want what’s best for your loved one.
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What Does The Bible Say About Mother In Laws
Genesis 2:24
Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
This verse teaches that when a man gets married, he leaves his parents and cleaves to his wife. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the marital relationship over the relationship with one’s mother-in-law.
It also implies that a healthy relationship with a mother-in-law is built on respect, boundaries, and a commitment to the marriage. Although a mother-in-law holds a significant role in the family, this verse reminds us that the marital bond should be cherished and protected.
Ruth 1:16
But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.
Ruth’s unwavering commitment to her mother-in-law, Naomi, exemplifies the virtue of loyalty and selflessness. This verse teaches us that a daughter-in-law can choose to embrace and honor her husband’s family, including her mother-in-law, even in challenging circumstances.
It invites us to cultivate an attitude of love, acceptance, and unity when it comes to our relationships with our mothers-in-law, inspired by Ruth’s devotion to Naomi.
Proverbs 6:20
My son, keep your father’s commandment, and forsake not your mother’s teaching.
Proverbs encourages respecting and valuing the wisdom and guidance of both parents, including mothers. This verse emphasizes the importance of honoring one’s mother and learning from her teachings.
Mothers-in-law can provide valuable guidance, support, and wisdom that can contribute to the growth and wellbeing of their daughters-in-law. It reminds us to have an open heart and mind to receive and appreciate their teachings.
Proverbs 23:25
Let your father and mother be glad; let her who bore you rejoice.
This verse calls upon children to bring joy and happiness to their parents, including their mothers. It applies to wives as well, urging them to bring joy to their husbands’ mothers, their mothers-in-law, through their kind words, loving actions, and respectful behavior.
It suggests that by treating our mothers-in-law with love and respect, we contribute to their happiness, fostering a harmonious and joyful relationship within the family.
Exodus 20:12
Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.
This commandment instructs us to honor both our parents, which includes our mothers-in-law. Honoring our mothers-in-law means showing them respect, gratitude, and kindness.
By honoring our mothers-in-law, we not only obey God’s commandment but also contribute to the overall well-being of our families, as this verse promises long days in the land given by the Lord.
1 Timothy 5:4
But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God.
This verse encourages adult children, including sons and daughters-in-law, to care for and support their widowed mothers. It highlights the importance of demonstrating godliness and gratitude towards parents, which includes mothers-in-law.
As daughters-in-law, we can show God’s love by being compassionate, supportive, and actively involved in helping our mothers-in-law, especially during challenging times.
Proverbs 19:26
He who does violence to his father and chases away his mother is a son who brings shame and reproach.
This verse condemns any form of mistreatment or disrespect towards parents, including mothers. It emphasizes the significance of treating our mothers-in-law with honor and dignity.
It reminds us that by welcoming and cherishing our mothers-in-law, we bring honor to ourselves and our families, cultivating an atmosphere of love and respect in the process.
Ephesians 6:1-2
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise).
Children, including daughters-in-law, are called to obey their parents and honor them. This verse recognizes the authority and wisdom parents possess, including mothers-in-law.
By obeying and respecting our mothers-in-law, we cultivate a culture of honor within our families, which, according to this verse, comes with a promise of blessings and prosperity.
Proverbs 10:1
The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother.
Mothers long for their children, including their daughters-in-law, to bring them joy and pride. This verse reminds us of the profound impact our words, actions, and decisions can have on our mothers-in-law.
By striving to be wise, respectful, and loving daughters-in-law, we not only bring gladness to our fathers-in-law but also alleviate any potential sorrow that our mothers-in-law may experience.
Colossians 3:20
Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.
As daughters-in-law, we are called to obey our parents, which includes our mothers-in-law. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will, demonstrating our love and reverence for Him.
Obeying our mothers-in-law means respecting their opinions, following their guidance, and seeking to honor them in all aspects of our lives.
Proverbs 31:26
She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
This verse highlights the ideal qualities of a godly woman, which can also apply to mothers-in-law. Wisdom and kindness are key attributes that should characterize our interactions with our mothers-in-law.
By speaking with wisdom and kindness, we create an environment of love, understanding, and respect, fostering a deep connection and mutual appreciation with our mothers-in-law.
1 Peter 2:17
Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.
This verse encourages us to honor and respect everyone, including our mothers-in-law. It reminds us that as Christians, we are called to love and honor one another, irrespective of our relationships.
Honoring our mothers-in-law means treating them with dignity, appreciation, and respect, recognizing their value as individuals and as members of our extended family.
Proverbs 15:20
A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother.
Similarly to Proverbs 10:1, this verse emphasizes the impact our actions can have on our mothers-in-law. It reminds us that our choices can either bring delight or disappointment to them.
By striving to be wise, considerate, and grateful daughters-in-law, we can bring joy and gladness to our mothers-in-law, fostering a relationship characterized by love and mutual respect.
Ephesians 6:2-3
“Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.
Just as this verse emphasizes the significance of honoring parents, including mothers-in-law, it also promises blessings and prolonging of life.
By honoring and respecting our mothers-in-law, we not only obey God’s commandment but also position ourselves for a life filled with His favor and blessings.
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.
The role of mothers-in-law extends beyond the immediate relationship with their daughters-in-law. As mothers, they have the opportunity to impart wisdom, values, and life lessons.
As daughters-in-law, we can honor our mothers-in-law by recognizing the influence they had on raising our spouses and expressing gratitude for the positive values they instilled in them.
Proverbs 31:10-11
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.
Although this verse refers primarily to wives, it indirectly encourages daughters-in-law to strive for excellence and be a blessing to their husbands. In doing so, they bring joy and peace to their mothers-in-law.
By building healthy, loving relationships with our spouses, we create a positive atmosphere within our families, which includes fostering a positive connection with our mothers-in-law.
Psalm 139:13-14
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
This beautiful psalm acknowledges God’s role in forming each individual, recognizing that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. It applies to daughters-in-law and their mothers-in-law alike, reminding us of the intrinsic value each person possesses.
By embracing and cherishing our mothers-in-law, we celebrate the unique workmanship of God and affirm the worth and significance of their presence in our lives.
Proverbs 31:28
Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.
Although this verse speaks specifically of wives and mothers, it implies the importance of expressing appreciation and praise. Daughters-in-law can honor their mothers-in-law by acknowledging their value and expressing gratitude for their presence.
By recognizing and celebrating the blessings our mothers-in-law bring to our lives, we contribute to an atmosphere of mutual respect and love within our families.
Proverbs 23:22
Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.
This verse teaches us to listen to and value the wisdom of our parents, including our mothers-in-law, especially as they grow older. It encourages us to maintain honor and respect for them, continuing to cherish their guidance and presence.
By listening to our mothers-in-law and valuing their insights, we demonstrate our commitment to fostering a strong and loving relationship with them.
Psalm 127:3-5
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.
This psalm highlights the significance of children as a blessing and reward from the Lord. It emphasizes the beauty and value of family, which includes mothers-in-law.
By recognizing the blessing our mothers-in-law bring to our lives and honoring their role in our families, we contribute to a sense of unity and shared purpose within our households.
Proverbs 17:6
Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.
As mothers-in-law, they have the opportunity to experience the joy and fulfillment of being grandmothers. This verse affirms the value and significance of grandchildren in the lives of their grandparents.
By fostering a loving and respectful relationship between our children and their grandparents, we contribute to the overall happiness and fulfillment of our mothers-in-law.
1 Corinthians 10:31
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
This verse reminds us to live our lives in a way that brings glory to God, including our relationships with our mothers-in-law. It encourages us to treat them with love, respect, and honor as an expression of our faith.
By seeking to honor and love our mothers-in-law, we showcase our commitment to living a life that reflects God’s love and grace.
Proverbs 30:17
The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures.
This verse illustrates the severity of disrespect and disobedience towards parents, including mothers-in-law. It serves as a reminder that dishonoring our mothers-in-law has serious consequences.
By treating our mothers-in-law with love, respect, and obedience, we contribute to a healthy and harmonious family dynamic, cultivating an atmosphere of honor and appreciation.
Proverbs 1:8
Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching.
Similar to Proverbs 6:20, this verse calls upon children, including daughters-in-law, to listen and learn from their mothers’ teachings. It encourages us to value the knowledge and wisdom our mothers-in-law have to offer.
By being open to their teachings and guidance, we demonstrate our respect and desire to grow in wisdom, fostering a deeper connection and understanding with our mothers-in-law.