The Impact of a Mother’s Faith
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.”
- 2 Timothy 1:5
Several years ago, John Piper was part of a panel discussion at a pastor’s conference. At one point in the conversation, he was asked, “John, how did you come to believe that the Bible really is the Word of God?” His response was simple: “My momma told me it was true.” Piper went on to add other reasons for his confidence in the Bible, but he started with the influence of his mother. Countless other Christians could undoubtedly share similar stories.
We read about many godly, faithful women in the Bible. Two of them that don’t get much attention are Eunice and Lois, Timothy’s mother and grandmother. When we’re first introduced to Timothy in Acts 16:1, we are told that his mother was a “believer,” and, later on, when Paul wrote the letter that we now know as 2 Timothy, he specifically mentioned the legacy of faith that these women handed down to Timothy. It seems that Eunice’s (and Lois’) faith must have played a significant role in his life. From this short verse, I think we learn two reasons that the faith of these mothers was so impactful.
First, their faith was remembered. When Paul thought of Lois and Eunice, he thought of their faith. I’m sure there were many other special things he could have mentioned about these women, but he specifically mentions their faith. What a great testament to the sincerity of their trust in the Lord.
And if Paul had such an appreciation of their faith, just imagine what Timothy and others in the family had heard and seen from these ladies. If those outside of the family were aware of their faith, how much more would those within the family have witnessed? They would have had a front-row seat to see the way these women loved and trusted and served God. There’s no doubt that Timothy and many others remembered the faith of Lois and Eunice, and we’re still talking about them even today!
Second, their faith was reproduced. Paul says that the faith that “dwelt” in these ladies now “dwells” in Timothy as well. Some people talk as if Paul led Timothy to faith, but I don’t think so. Acts 16:1-2 tells us that Timothy was already “a disciple” who was “well spoken of by the brothers” by the time Paul encountered him. How did Timothy come to know the Lord? I believe that, like John Piper, Timothy had a mother who instructed him in the faith.
By God’s design, mothers have an amazing opportunity to influence their children and lead them to Jesus. If you are a mother, strive to make the most of the time you have with your children. Point them to Jesus, and be intentional about instructing them in the faith. If you feel like you don’t have what it takes or like you’ve blown it, remember that His grace is sufficient (2 Cor. 12:9), and His mercies are new every morning (Lam. 3:22-23). Look to Him, trust in Him, and seek to Honor Him. If you do that, you’ll leave a legacy of faith and influence that will last. Even if your children choose not to follow in your footsteps, they won’t be able to deny the reality of your faith.
We hope you and your family will join us for worship this Mother’s Day. To learn more about how to lead your children to the Lord, check out John Comb’s Side Note “Family Worship: Where to Start.”