Grandmothers in the Bible: Good, Bad and Blessed

Two of the most prominent grandmothers in the Bible are Lois and Naomi. What can modern grandmas learn from the examples of these grandmas?

Grandmothers are a mixed bag in the Bible. There were some who were good; and some, bad. But most are an inconspicuous part of the warp and woof of the family tapestry. Probably the most familiar grandmothers in the Bible are Lois, mother of Eunice and grandmother to Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5), and Naomi (though she was a different kind of grandma).

Lois’ legacy

Thanks to the apostle Paul, we get a small glimpse into the relationship Lois had with her grandson. Since Timothy’s father was a Greek and possibly not even still living, Timothy’s religious training fell to Lois and Eunice.

According to various sources, Lystra, where this family lived, was a Roman colony and a center of education and enlightenment. Even though their Jewish community was a minority, these two women managed to keep Timothy grounded in the Holy Scriptures in spite of the prevailing pagan beliefs and immoral lifestyles.

Though we aren’t given details on Lois’ life, we are assured in 2 Timothy 1:5 that she was a woman of deep faith who shared that gift with her daughter and grandson. She was a woman who took Deuteronomy 6:7 very seriously: “You shall teach them [God’s words] diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.”

Naomi, blessed by God

Probably every Bible reader can recall the beautiful story of the widowed Naomi and her devoted daughter-in-law, Ruth. Naomi is not known principally as a grandmother in the Bible. In fact she had no biological grandchildren of her own. But the Bible assures us that her heart was not empty of such a joy:

“So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife; and when he went in to her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bore a son. Then the women said to Naomi, ‘Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a close relative; and may his name be famous in Israel! And may he be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age; for your daughter-in-law, who loves you, who is better to you than seven sons, has borne him.’

“Then Naomi took the child and laid him on her bosom, and became a nurse to him. Also the neighbor women gave him a name, saying, ‘There is a son born to Naomi.’ And they called his name Obed. He is the father of Jesse, the father of David” (Ruth 4:13-17).

Timeless takeaway

Grandmothers can be very influential by action and example. Consider just some of the modern-day faithful grandmothers sprinkled throughout the spectrum of local church congregations:

Vi* is always busy, especially since she is currently dedicated to homeschooling a granddaughter (who is not the first to benefit from her guiding hand). She cares deeply about a proper, God-based education, and willingly devotes her time to ensuring that happens.

Donna is very involved in her grandchildren’s lives, both at home and at church. For several years she has helped coordinate Sabbath school activities in her local congregation (which includes several in her family) and is often seen with at least one grandchild in tow.

Ellen is in constant motion: volunteering at church wherever there is a need; making hand-pieced quilts for each of her grandchildren; visiting the sick; taking food to those in need; and always up for anything new and exciting. Her zest for life is inspiring!

Judy never has a dull moment. She is active with special music and writing for church publications, teaching, working with summer youth camps, involved in regular family get-togethers, and taking wonderful pictures with an eye to extolling God’s creation.

Lisa looks forward to church-sponsored summer camps where she volunteers with joyous enthusiasm. Her own grandchildren are among the attendees.

Andria is a grandmother to every child she meets. She writes Bible stories and activities for children, and she always has a twinkle in her eye and a hug at the ready.

Esther teaches her grandchildren and great-grandchildren the value of prayer on an ongoing basis. She is often the first responder and petitioner when difficulties arise. Her example of trusting God in very difficult circumstances is sure to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of her loved ones.

Sarah is awed by God and His creation. She nurtures that in her grandchildren at every opportunity, whether by sharing lovely photographs, writing instructive stories and lessons, or by her example of nurturing and respecting nature.

Beth just loves children—and it shows. She has been active in Sabbath school for years and has shared her experience, dedication and ability to shepherd young hearts with God’s way of life whenever and wherever possible.

*Names changed throughout

Church grandmas at the ready

God’s Church is an extended family in the faith (Matthew 12:50; John 19:25-27; Galatians 6:10). There are many faithful volunteer grandmothers just waiting to give their own timeless takeaways, hearts and arms wide open to welcome each new baby born in a congregation. Their joy is obvious for all to see.

For further insight into being a godly grandparent, read “Leaving a Legacy for Your Grandchildren.”

Karen Meeker lives in St. Louis, Missouri. She is blessed with five wonderful grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Life is good!