A Mother’s Letter from the Heart of God

I am reminded of a mother and grandmother from the Bible who left a lasting impression of their faith on their son and grandson, Timothy. A sincere faith, which first lived in his grandmother Lois and in his mother Eunice and lived on through Timothy's life. I want to have this genuine faith that lives on through my daughter's lives.

Paul, the apostle saw this faith evident in Timothy and writes down words of wisdom for him to encourage him on in his faith. Words penned to his own son in faith (1 Timothy 1:2) sent to him in an epistle, the second letter sent to him from his prison cell, which is kept and recorded in the Bible for us named after the receiver himself. Words that we can write on the tablets of our children's hearts (Proverbs 7:3).

If I were to take some pointers from Paul's letter to Timothy, this is the letter I will leave for my daughters and hope you would pass on to your own children as well...

To my dear daughters,

Night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers.

I want to leave you with some words of wisdom that I hope you can keep in your heart throughout your life. First of all remember that the Spirit God gave you does not make you timid, but gives you power, love and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord.

Hold on to the pattern of wholesome teaching you learned from me—a pattern shaped by the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus. Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you.

My dear daughters, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus.

Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior.

If you keep yourself pure you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.

Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.

You must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. Never forget that all Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach you what is true and to make you realize what is wrong in your lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare you and equip you to do every good work.

You should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.

May the Lord be with your spirit. And may his grace be with you both, always.

Love, Mom