A Mother's Influence
by Charles W. Wages

Matthew 20:20; Acts 16:1-2

In reading the books of I & II Kings, it is noteworthy how the mothers of kings influenced them for good or for bad. Each of the many kings that ruled over Israel and Judah can be characterized by one of two statements, "And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord", or, "And he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord.." Over and over when giving the genealogy of a certain king, we are told, "And his mother was." This, of course, wasn't meant to imply that everything the king did and his ultimate ending was the direct result of his mother's influence. However, the early upbringing often charts the course the son or daughter will follow.

Let's consider some positive things that can be gathered from Matthew 20:20-28 that concerns the "mother of Zebedee's children. " This account tells us she came to Jesus with her two sons. She has a tremendous request to make of Jesus. InMarkI0, the sons are heard making the same request of Jesus. In each case, He denied them saying, "It shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father." Yet, we seethe deep love and concern by a mother for her sons. First, she came with her sons. She didn't just send them. If parents could only see the great importance of being in God's presence with their children. Too many just send their children to church while they stay home and sleep, watch television, or work around the house. Also, we note that she talked to the Lord and brought her desires to Him. Whether we agree with her request or not, at least she brought her petition before the Lord. Communication existed between a mother and the Lord Jesus concerning her sons. Are we interested enough to bring our children's welfare before the Lord? This also showed she wanted the best for her sons * True, she exhibited immaturity in the request, because Jesus said, "Ye know not what ye ask." Also, it showed a lack of knowledge on her part because she seemed to expect the kingdom on earth immediately, and she probably was not aware of the suffering they would endure before the glory would be experienced. However, she must be commended as a mother who wanted the best for her children, that is, in His service.

In Acts 16, we have an account of Timothy's mother. Not much is said of her, except she "was a Jewess, and believed. " Later on, the apostle Paul called to remembrance that, "the unfeigned faith that is in thee (Timothy) which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. " (II Timothy 1: 5). We are informed in Acts 16:2 that Timothy was "well reported" of by the brethren. This means that he had a good reputation. No wonder, when we consider his godly training by a godly mother. In this instance, Eunice, no doubt, was more interested in Timothy's sound background in the Word of God, and the character that would produce. She wasn't necessarily looking for place or prestige but Christian character. In other words, "not to have, but to be." Timothy must have been a good testimony and witness of the Word. The expression in Acts 16:2 that informs us that he was "well reported" of by the brethren means that he had a good reputation. We know the power and influence of the Word cannot be underestimated. However, it was his mother who gave the early love and training to mold and fashion his life. We will never be able to measure the importance and results of a godly mother. Countless numbers of lives throughout the centuries testify to this influence. May it continue to in our modern times.

Not all children will be kings, presidents, or men of earthly renown, but they are all important to the Lord and have a place in His plan. The early influence will, in a large manner, determine their future goals and attainments, but above all, what type of person they will be. The influence of the mother cannot be overstated or overemphasized. How wonderful to be a godly mother!