Lessons Learned from Lois and Eunice

2 Timothy 1:3–5 ESV

I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. 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.

Acts 16:1–3 ESV

Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek. He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium. Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek.

As grandparents, we may find ourselves pondering our impact on our children and grandchildren alike, especially when it comes to the hope that our lives will have a transformative influence for Christ on future generations.

1. Be an Example of a Firm and Lively Faith

Deuteronomy 6:5 ESV

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.

Every household will not be a perfect household

Timothy’s father was likely absentee and not of the Jewish faith,

Evidenced by his Greek heritage, as well as the lack of following the Israelite custom of circumcision when Timothy was a baby.

This fact alone gave Lois every reason to distance herself from her daughter Eunice, and her grandson Timothy.

But had she done so, she would have no opportunity to example the faith she had found in Jesus Christ, as well as the love that flows from being guided by his Spirit.

Romans 12:18 ESV

If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

Lois models the ideal that one godly influence can have the power to counteract those influences that may tug against a faith-filled life.

2. Be Faithful to Leave a Tangible Legacy of Love

2 Timothy 1:5 ESV

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.

People give for various reasons (to be admired, showcased, Room and Building dedications)

Psalm 78:4 ESV

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.

2 Timothy 2:2 ESV

and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.

Matthew 6:20–21 ESV

but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

I wonder how Lois felt on the day her daughter chose to marry outside of the Jewish faith.

Did she feel a failure? Could she have done a better job translating her love of God to her daughter, or perhaps more thoroughly lived out the tenets and history of the Jewish scriptures?

3. Continue in What You Have Learned

2 Timothy 3:14–15 ESV

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

CONCLUSION

To Leave a Godly Legacy like Lois and Eunice

Encourage Them

Equip Them

Remind Them

Reassure Them

Release Them

Rejoice With Them

Romans 12:12 ESV

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.