Let’s talk about a young man in the Bible, Timothy. Paul, in writing to him, addresses him as his “son in the faith.” Paul writes to encourage and affirm Timothy to follow his calling.
Timothy’s faith had been founded by his mother, Eunice and grandmother, Lois. Both had deposited seeds of faith into his life as he was growing up.
“For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well.”
(2 Timothy 1:5, NASB)
It is most critical that we lay a solid foundation in the lives of our children and grandchildren. They need to see authenticity in the lives of those closest to them. All of us would agree that the most important inheritance we could give our children is Jesus.
They need to see Jesus being lived out right in front of their eyes.
We are not told if Lois and Eunice impacted anyone besides young Timothy. Perhaps that is all we need to be told. Perhaps this is because – all we ever need to do is impact the one.
What if all God expects of us is to impact just one life? And then it is that one life who will impact many?
Paul gives young Timothy words to live by that we all need to hear today:
“You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:14-15, NASB)
We are to cling to the things we have learned, especially when we know those from whom we have been taught. We need to hold firm to the “sacred writings” – the Scriptures – for they are the truth by which we will gain wisdom to live on a daily basis.
“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” (verse 16, NASB)
Our hearts need to remain receptive to the work which Scripture will achieve in our lives. It is Scripture which helps us to recognize what is wrong in our lives. It is Scripture which will correct us when we have been wrong, and teach us to do what is right and just.
Why do Scriptures do this deep and hard work within us?
” … so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”
(verse 17, NASB)
We need to hold firm to the Scriptures, for it is through them that we will be equipped for whatever life brings our way.
“We have come with open hearts,
Oh, let the ancient words impart.”
(from the song “Ancient Words” by Michael W. Smith)
We need to take time to examine the details in God’s Word in order to make practical application for our daily lives. Mariel Davenport shares this thought: “As we examine and notice the Word, as a gardener examines and notices her plants, God begins to tend it into our soul and bear fruit from those small places. ” Be sure to read her entire post, “pausing to take notice” HERE.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
Today I am joining …
This is my desire, for myself and my children.
Yes, mine too! And I find I need His wisdom in increasing measure.
We sang Ancient Words in church just last Sunday. It has been in my mind ever since!
I love when things like this occur! It is such a beautiful song that often comes to mind as I read Scripture.
I love that MWS song :). The more time I spend in the Word, the more I discover myself applying what I’ve read to situations in my life””the words act like a pause button, making me think and ponder before I act.
It is so true. I am always amazed at the practical application it brings to everyday situations.
Love the testimony of Timothy. How is your Tim?
Joanne, I love the picture of Lois & Eunice, yes it seems they only impacted one life, but their faithfulness has impacted us as well! We never know how God will use our faithfulness to His ancient words.
Amen. Love this.
I love your point about how we might just called to impact the one. I think investing in individuals is so important, and who knows how God can use it?
Oh, Joanne. I love this. I want to deposit seeds of faith in the lives of my children and now my grandchildren. What a wonderful example Paul has set for all of us parents and grandparents.
Joanne, this is beautiful. I am truly amazed and humbled when I see the work God does in and through me and others because hearts were open. As the mom of two older teenaged sons, I appreciate the reminder that impacting “the one life” is enough if that was God’s plan for me. Thank you for that perspective; it’s much needed!
Well, Joanne, you’ve chosen to focus on a scripture that is somewhat near and dear to my heart. 🙂 (I’m just glad my parents didn’t name me Eunice!) I love the song “Ancient Words,” and your thoughts about impacting the one (or two or however many, even if it’s not a lot) resonate so deeply with my mother’s heart. Hugs, friend.