A Mother’s Powerful Influence

13 May 2013 James Hoh CM –

 

“It is said that behind every successful man there is a woman. It is very true because marriages and parenting are under a lot of pressure today. In the West, countries are affected by immorality but in the East, countries like ours are affected by materialism and all kinds of philosophies that bombard our families.

 

 

“There is need to have devoted Christian mothers who are dedicated and committed to carry out their roles in society today. If not for dedicated and committed mothers, many of us would not be here today,” Rev Simon Cheong said.

 

Rev Simon Cheong is the President of Alpha Omega International College  

 

Rev Cheong delivered a powerful message from 2 Timothy 1:1-9 to inspire mothers on Mothers’ Day Sunday service at Taman Midah Lutheran Church (TMLC), Kuala Lumpur. 

⁵ when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also. 2 Timothy 1:5, NKJV

Timothy was the disciple and spiritual son of the Apostle Paul. Timothy had done many great things for the Lord and pastored a big church. But Eunice, being Timothy’s mother and Lois being Timothy’s grandmother played an important role in bringing him up to be who he was. They were powerful influencers in Timothy’s life, Rev Cheong added.

 

 

And in this passage, the apostle Paul encouraged Timothy by reminding him of the faithfulness that was found in his mother, Eunice and grandmother, Lois.

Rev Cheong said “we congratulate and salute mothers” because:

 

1. Their influence of commending early parenting with wisdom and humility.

Many people marry but delay having children due to the cost of living. They think about the financial cost of having children. We really appreciate mothers for working and taking care of the children.

We thank God for mothers who impart faith to their children to start a family though the cost maybe high and this is important.

 

2. Influence in commending their children’s self-esteem in words and works.

The Scripture says that faith was found in Timothy’s mother and grand mother.  Through the Word of God and works, we can take time to teach children and transfer faith to the children.

Timothy’s grandmother and mother always taught him by words and works and not so much as by giving him Bible studies. Timothy had many challenges at that time. He was timid, fearful and reserved, and I believe Timothy’s mother always encouraged and spurred him on until he became a great man of God.

Timothy also had physical problems as Paul encouraged him to use some wine.

At the same time, Timothy also faced doctrinal challenges from a certain sect in the church.  

Yet the foundation that his mother and grandmother laid kept him from giving up.  

 

 

3. Powerful influence of contending for success and survival through prayer and perseverance.

Eunice and Lois not only prayed but also persevered through to make sure Timothy would be a successful man in society.

Parents will always talk about their children like their own success. They brag about what they have done for their children simply because parents spend all of their lives to succeed in life and society. This is something positive.

But it is equally important to pray for them consistently so that they would have a great spiritual life.    

 

 

4. Influence in constructing their spiritual lives so that they would be able to pass that on to the next generation.

Both Eunice and Lois facilitated the shaping of Timothy spiritual life according to the blueprint of God. Their responsibility was to ensure whatever that they believed in was transferred to Timothy.

Preparing children for God is like preparing children to be the bride for Jesus Christ. Through his mother’s guidance, Timothy received:

·       Spiritual gifts

·       Spiritual parents

·       Spiritual power – the Holy Spirit

·       Self control and sound mind

Let’s celebrate and appreciate mothers because they are sent by God to powerfully influence our lives and society, Rev Cheong urged. 

 

Chairman of the Board praying for all the mothers

 

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