Lois and Eunice were Jewish women, mother and daughter, who were mentioned by name only once in the Bible—as the grandmother and mother of Timothy (2 Tim. 1:5). We don’t know much about Timothy’s father, other than that he was Greek. We don’t even know for sure if Timothy’s father was a Christian. However, this diverse family heritage gave Timothy unique insights into the Jewish and Greek cultures as he followed these impactful women’s legacy of faith.
Paul often referred to Timothy as his beloved child or child in the faith, yet he took a moment in 2 Timothy 1 to remind Timothy of his spiritual roots—critical at a time when Timothy felt discouraged and defeated.
3 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. 4 As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. 5 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. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
Paul’s words to Timothy served as an affirmation from his mentor that he was not alone.
• Paul remembered Timothy constantly in his prayers.
• Timothy’s tears were heard, validated, and shared because Paul longs to see him, as well.
• Paul reminded Timothy that his mother and grandmother were another two of his biggest cheerleaders in the faith—ones from whom he could glean examples of faithfulness and a continued legacy of faith.
My Lois and Eunice are named Barbara and Jocelynn. My grandmother and mother have served as encouraging cheerleaders and instrumental examples for maintaining the faith throughout life, especially during the trying times. They are spiritual mentors and promote a legacy of faith that extends beyond the blood relation in our family.
Even though Lois and Eunice are not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, I would like to believe that they were a positive Christian influence in the lives of many others in Lystra (Timothy’s hometown). I know that many women continually seek out my grandmother and my mom for spiritual wisdom, a prayer partner, or an encouraging word.
Thanks be to God for the tremendous blessing of my motherly mentors! And it is my prayer that I can be the same motherly mentor for each and every one of the Iron Rose Sisters who is equipped to connect to God and one another more deeply through this ministry and her resources.
#IronRoseSister #3generations #mentor