September 19, 2019

BIBLE READING: II TIMOTHY 1

5 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.

Just a reminder today about the spiritual impact that you can have on your children and grandchildren. More things stick in their minds than you may think. Although I was only close to one of my grandparents, and one I never even met, I remember little things from each of my grandparents that I have never forgotten. Little comments, little gifts, and little lessons that stick with you forever.

Paul says that the faith that Timothy had, the “unfeigned” faith, had been handed down to him from his mother and grandmother. Paul does not mention dad or granddad, but he does mention Lois and Eunice. Apparently even without strong male spiritual influence, Timothy’s grandmother and mother had had a lasting spiritual impact on Timothy. If you are a single parent today, be encouraged that God can overcome the spiritual influences that are lacking in your child’s life. If you are a grandparent and feel that your grandchildren are not being raised correctly, be encouraged, because God can use what little influence you have to make a great impact.

What must be understood is that for you to have an impact on your child or grandchildren’s life, the faith must start in you. It’s not just what you talk about, but what you live in front of them that has an impact. This great faith that Paul said that Timothy had, was evident in the day to day life of his mother and grandmother. It wasn’t just instruction, it was “unfeigned faith” that they had in their life first.

Be aware today that what you do, how you live, and what you say will have a lasting impact for future generations.