Rev. E. Anderson
GREAT GODLY INFLUENCE
It is in later life that there should be the manifestation of grace and maturity that results in great, godly influence. Because the person has had things in place and operation from the outset in a divine manner and measure, the ultimate revelation should be that of maximum input and impact in so many ways. Paul recognized in Timothy’s grandmother Lois that she was a woman of immense worth and had contributed enormously to the spiritual well-being of so many and so speaks highly and commendably of her – 2 Timothy 1: vv5, 6. He could observe and make the point that this fine young, Christian servant of Christ was where he was by reason of the bearing of this choice grandparent. Looking at the brief statement it becomes apparent that should stood out as a person of dynamic, spiritual influence, authority and persuasion in a quiet and effective way. She is not to be under-estimated.
1/. SHE MUST HAVE INFLUENCED HER OWN GENERATION
One gets the impression that this wonderful grandmother had been on the spiritual road and route a long time. She could look over decades of knowing and exercising a faith in God and from the earliest of days had significantly demonstrated it. Those in her formative days knew her to be a person that was different and as an individual that was committed to a life and testimony that honoured God and no doubt God honoured her in her teens etc. It must be recognized that it is never too early to have a relationship with God and to give Him the place of priority at the outset of life and influence the generation for good. The fact is that most find Christ in their formative years and that is when we can love and serve the Lord effectually.
2/. SHE MUST HAVE INFLUENCED THE NEXT GENERATION
The fact that her daughter is mentioned as a person who has faith indicates the spiritual impact of the mother upon her. In some choice way Eunice had seen God had work in her mum and the home and this is what she desired for herself. She desired to follow down the same track of her parent. She was not switched off by what she witnessed, but switched on. What she saw reflected in her upbringing she longed for and committed herself to the same. It is a very powerful and inspiring fact when the family-generation is so directly affected. There is no better or greater testimony to God when household units are so influenced and stand out in their quality of faith and life.
3/. SHE MUST HAVE INFLUENCED HER FINAL GENERATION
Timothy was not only brought up under the watchful eye of a good mother, grandmother Lois was also jealous and committed o the blessedness of her grandson. She must have cherished his existence and at every opportunity sought to bless the child in her love, care and instruction. She would have made sure that he was given the right sort of counsel and instruction. How delighted she must have been when he came to personal faith in the Lord and to see him making his stand for Him! Although he was of a timid nature, grandmother would seek to embolden him in the faith. Who could measure her delight when she sees Paul taking him alongside as a partner and must have sensed all her labour was worth it? Timothy was to continue the good work grandmother and mother had commenced and become of wider, godly influence. It was to move on unabated.
CONCLUSION
it be accepted that we are called upon first of all to be impacted God in a significant manner.
Real faith needs to be created and cultivated within the life so that there is a genuine accord with God that results in a dynamic, godly lifestyle.
The purpose and passion must dominate and dictate that there should be a real impact made upon each generation. We should never stop until our life’s work is over in touching each day in which we live.
