Gifts From God - Our Mothers
A story is told of a drill sergeant who was frustrated in his efforts to train and make a soldier out of a certain recruit. The trainee lagged behind on marches, used any excuse to get out of duty - any excuse to be put on sick call, never made up his cot properly. Never seemed to be motivated.
But one day a noticeable change took place in the young man’s attitude. When asked as to what contributed to the young soldier’s change of attitude, the drill sergeant explained - “Threats would not work. Punishment would not work - So I had to resort to the ultimate weapon: I called his mother!”
What power a mother has! What influence a mother has on her children.
What really makes greatness? Is it the talents and the abilities that a person has? Is it their appearance or how they look or how beautiful or handsome they are? Is it what is written about the person that makes them great? Is it the amount of wealth they have accumulated that makes them great?
What measures greatness? Perhaps in the eyes of God greatness is as this scripture reading points out. It’s found in the influence of godly mothers.
The apostle Paul, wrote these amazing words to a young apprentice pastor, Timothy: “I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded now lives in you also.” 2 Timothy 1:5
Apparently the sincere faith of Timothy’s mother and grandmother made a deep and lasting impression on this young man. And not only that, it was noticed by those around him. You see, we cannot depend on the institution of the church or the school to take the place of the home. And the influence of a godly mother and grandmother cannot be overestimated.
Four scholars were arguing over Bible translations. One said that he preferred the King James Version, because of its beautiful language. Another said, he preferred the New American Standard Bible because it is so accurate according to the original text. A third man mentioned another for its words that capture the attention of the reader.
After reflecting, the fourth scholar said, “I personally have preferred my mother’s translation.” After the others laughed he said, “She translates every page of the Bible into life. It is the most convincing translation I have ever known.”
It’s been said that Susannah Wesley, mother of John Wesley spent an hour each day praying for her 17 children. She took them aside each day to talk with them about spiritual matters. And what was the result? Two of her sons Charles and John were used by God to bring a blessing to many people in England and America.
Ellen White wrote concerning the influence of the Mother:
“The sphere of the mother….is as abiding as eternity. Next to God, the mother’s power for good is the strongest known on earth.” Adventist Home, p. 240
The impact of the role of mother cannot be measured. It has tremendous impact on the entire family. Mothers are truly a gift from God!
Pastor Barry Taylor
Worship Service - 11:00 am
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