Who put that there?

I stumbled upon something in the Bible that I have never seen before. And in a very familiar place. Near what is one of the most popular, if not THE most popular verses on the importance of God's Word. 2 Timothy 3:16-17..."All Scripture is God-breathed..." In fact, I would guess that I have personally used these verses around 100 times, but I've never noticed the amazing statement in the previous verse.

Moms and dads, do we believe in the importance of the Bible? Do we believe that it really is God's Word? Do we want to pass down this belief to our children? Then we need to pay attention to what Paul is about to say is true about Timothy. In 2 Timothy 3:14-15 Paul tells Timothy, "Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus."

So when do you start intentionally teaching your children God's Word? From infancy. Seriously? Jewish boys would begin their formal education in the Old Testament at age 5, but Timothy had been taught at home from the time he was a baby! Jacey is three years old now. Her infancy is already in her past. I am constantly amazed at her ability to learn, understand, and memorize. One of the greatest joys I have had as a parent is to hear my little three year old girl quote Scripture. I must be honest and and say that she is more limited by my commitment to work with her than by her own ability. God has designed us in amazing ways, and little children have an uncanny ability to learn.

Lord, if these verses are going to be said of Jacey one day, then it is my responsibilty to teach her. Help me to understand my responsibility and fulfill my role in her life. I depend on Your Holy Spirit to use me.


Sidenotes:

The time to intentionally teach your child the Holy Scriptures is NOW. Lesson from these verses: it's never too early. And it's never too late!!! The most powerful lesson you may be able to teach your older children is in your repentance and new commitment to God's Word. In a survey given to the students at North Highlands Baptist Church this summer, I asked the following question: If your parent(s) asked you to read the Bible with them, would you be excited about it? The response...100% of our students said "yes." It's never too late.

Who taught Timothy God's Word from infancy? 2 Timothy 1:5 tells us it was MeMaw Lois and Mama Eunice. This should be encouraging for any single moms or mothers whose husbands are not spiritual leaders in your family, as was the case in Timothy's life. (Acts 16:1.) Though it is God's plan for the father to be the spiritual leader of the household, there is special grace given for mom (or even grandparents) to step in.