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. 2Timothy 1:5
The above are introductory comments of the aged apostle Paul in a letter to a younger man Timothy - his son in the faith (1Cor. 4:17). Timothy needed reassuring as he was a young pastor facing the trials of the pastorate and Paul’s encouragement was timely and needed.
What I want to bring to your attention is Paul’s understanding of the strategic role of Timothy’s mother and grandmother in this young mans life and ministry.
It does not say specifically, but is clearly inferred that the “sincere” faith of both these women were foundational in producing a man of God that the Lord used for His glory.
Now please note, Timothy’s father or grandfather is not mentioned here. This does not demean the vital role fathers have but it does highlight a powerful role that mothers can do with excellence. Mothers may not carry the weight and responsibility of biblical leadership and authority in the home that fathers are called to, but they certainly carry the responsibility to nurture and influence their children for good, like fathers cannot.
Being a mother that nurtures her children in the ways of the Lord is a joy and a privilege that no Christian mother dare treat lightly. It is your primary discipleship program. It will bring eternal reward and glory to God, no matter how your children respond. I like how J. MacArthur in his book, Successful Christian Parenting, puts it: “To be a mother is by no means second class. Men may have the authority in the home, but the women have the influence. The mother, more than the father, is the one who molds and shapes those little lives from day one.” Happy Mother’s day!