Everyone has heard of Saint Augustine of Hippo. It is certain one has heard about him or has read his books and famous quotes. This man is a big deal in the Christian world and remains one of the most noteworthy, prominent, and influential theologians in the church's history.
Augustine of Hippo is one of the most influential Christian thinkers who ever lived. The Christian world would not be the same without him, yet the truth is, he almost did not become the man people look up to today - if not for his mother.
His famous quote, "There is no saint without a past, no sinner without a future," accurately describes himself.
St. Augustine's mother was Monica, a devout Christian who married a non-Christian who did not believe in God and would not even permit their kids to be baptized. However, this did not stop her from persevering in prayer for her children. Despite the hindrances and struggles, she made sure that she got to pass her love for God and His Word to her children and taught them to honor God as she deeply did. It was said that she was able to provide "exactly the kind of childhood you would expect for a spiritual giant like Augustine."
But here's the twist, Augustine rebelled against it all.
Who would have thought St. Augustine was a "prodigal son"? For years he lived a life of pure selfishness and self-gratification, lived together with a woman with whom he had a child out of wedlock. He became a teacher of a heretical cult. For years, he ignored his mother's warnings, pleas, and prayers, not knowing that despite these, his mother pressed on with her prayers, even asking people of faith to pray with her for the salvation and transformation of her son.
Monica prayed without ceasing, and her prayers were not left unheard. When St. Augustine turned 31 years old, his eyes were finally opened to the truth of the Gospel, and since then, Monica has harvested more than what her prayers and tears sowed.
The powerful influence of motherhood
Sharon Hodde Miller, a writer, speaker, pastor's wife, and mom of two boys, always goes back to the story of St. Augustine and Monica's persistent and patient heart. As a mother, it was a big revelation how her children's lives, future, and hearts depend on what she does and doesn't.
This realization became stronger when she interviewed women in seminary for her doctorate research. These women stated that their mothers were their greatest influencers in ministry and life. They look up to their mothers being role models and leaders in their community and church. Some would not forget how their mothers encouraged them and saw and identified their gifts and calling before anyone else did.
Mothers have this genuine, incredible influence that is different from others.
"Not only do we contribute to the work of disciple-making, but we cultivate our children's callings as well. Whether you are a biological mother, adoptive mother, or spiritual mother, you are helping to raise up the next generation of gospel-centered world changers," Miller, the author of She Worships, expressed.
How to bring up future leaders?
In her article for Propel Women, Miller gave four suggestions on how mothers can uphold their responsibility in bringing up future leaders with the heart for the Lord and others.
1. Nurture one's faith.
A mother cannot give her children something that she does not have. Spend time in and know the value of God's Word. Pray ceasingly like Monica. Model faithfulness, service, and humility. Children are observant. Put in mind that they are watching to see if their mother is walking the talk, and they are the first witnesses when prayers are heard, and faith is rewarded.
2. Nurture the faith of your kids.
Parents should not leave to the church the responsibility of influencing and nurturing their children. Remember that the church isn't the biggest spiritual influence in the lives of children but the parents who are with them, not only on Sundays but in their daily lives. Parents should take on the role of the "frontline disciple-maker," teaching them Scripture, the importance of prayer and how to pray, and most of all, teaching them what it looks like to be Christlike in big and small things. Know that their spiritual journey will not be perfect. God will take care of what you sow.
3. Steward children's gifts.
Discovering and identifying their children's God-given gifts is one of the most powerful things parents can do. Parents should be willing to set aside the gifts they want to see in their children and honor and be grateful for God's gifts. Be willing to nurture these gifts. Declare truth and vision over your children, without pressure but always with encouragement. Guide and lead them as they identify their specific role in God's story.
4. Steward one's gifts
Again, parents will not be able to give or teach something they do not own or practice. One of the most impactful and effective ways to teach children how to steward their gifts is by stewarding one's own.
Miller ends with a powerful reminder: "If you are a mother of any kind, then you are a leader, so wield your influence well."
Related Article: Motherhood Expert Encourages Moms to Rest and Refresh as Children Head Back to School
