Recognizing Mothers

“When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind,” 2 Timothy 1:5-7.

With Mother’s Day approaching, it might be beneficial to spend time celebrating the important role mothers play in families, churches and society. As important as godly fathers might be, historically, we have seen that mothers can set positive spiritual projections for their children regardless of their fathers’ involvement. A godly mother can mean the difference between a child’s abounding faith or absent faith.

This difference can be observed in the example of Timothy. While his father was a Greek and likely an unbeliever, Timothy’s grandmother, Lois, and mother, Eunice, were believers in Jesus Christ. As Paul wrote to encourage Timothy to “stir up the gift of God,” the Holy Spirit guided him to also include commendatory remarks concerning the women who had fostered the development of his faith. Despite the presumed absence of his father’s spiritual influence, Timothy was influenced by his mother and grandmother to believe, love and serve Jesus just as Lois and Eunice had.

Today, many children are being raised without the biblical, spiritual leadership of an earthly father. Out of necessity, many mothers have assumed the role of the spiritual head of their homes. While this ought not to be, as in the case of Timothy, we observe the tremendous impact mothers can have on God’s kingdom through their spiritual influence in the lives of their children and grandchildren. May we take time to honor and thank God for godly mothers and grandmothers.

Mark Clements

Editor in Chief

Mark.Clements@bogardstore.org