We are camping very briefly in the book of 2 Timothy. What a glimpse into the heart of the Apostle Paul and the very depths of being in Timothy, his son in the faith. The love of  spiritual father and son, the love of partnership and shared experiences, the love of mutual ministries together was very precious indeed. Paul, from prison, writes to Timothy and speaks of their precious relationship (1:2); how he remembers him in his prayers day and night (1:3); and how he greatly desires to see Timothy again (1:4a).

Now Paul writes about his joy. Think about this with me for just a moment today. What a wonderful blessing awaits us.

“That I might be filled with joy; 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” (2 Timothy 1:4b-5).

Just over a couple of chapters, Paul adds,

“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15).

Timothy had the privilege of having a mom and grandmother who loved the Lord. We know very little about his father, except that he was a Greek (Acts 16:1). Timothy’s spiritual nurturing and training is credited by Paul to these dear ladies. This faith was found in Timothy’s mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5).

Now, granted the “ideal” home is one in which father and mother love the Lord, honor His Word, and train their children to love Christ as well. Grandfather and grandmother loving the Lord and supporting their grandchildren’s parents is an added bonus. But honestly, friends, fewer and fewer homes have this ideal. More and more children are being raised by single parents or grandparents who should be encouraged in the life and testimony of Timothy. Single mom, older grandmother, go ahead and invest in that young life. You just might be raising a Timothy!

I’m shouting this from the rooftop (figuratively speaking!): Young people, believe the Word of God! Adults, keep teaching your children the Word of God! Every believer, keep living out the Word of God! You will be glad that you did. It will make you wise.