Names like Rockefeller and Rothschild come to mind when we mention generational wealth and influence.  However, I believe God also wants us to leave a spiritual inheritance that impacts our posterity. Parents and Grandparents alike, can introduce Christ and disciple their family members.  Nurturing one’s lineage to love and serve God wholeheartedly and reflect his character would change the world.

Multiple Generations

In the Old Testament, I love the phrase, “the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” This is grandfather, father, and son.  Each had a personal relationship with God. Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel by God, transmitted a great spiritual legacy to his family which brought about major blessings for them. In Genesis 35:2 (NIV), Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, “Get rid of the foreign gods you have with you and purify yourselves and change your clothes.”

Timothy, from the New Testament, was a youth who had been brought up to believe the Old Testament scriptures and then believed in Jesus.  As a result of his upbringing, he was mentored by Apostle Paul and helped to establish several churches and equip believers. In 2 Timothy 1:5 (NASB) Paul states, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” 

God’s Notices You

Not only is the legacy that we leave our families important, but God observes every aspect of our lives.  Jeremiah 17:10 states, “But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.”  Here are a few scriptures that reveal a portion of what will count in eternity:

• Matthew 12:36 (ESV)  “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.”
• Malachi 3:16 (NIV) “Then those who feared the LORD talked with each other, and the LORD listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the LORD and honored his name.”
• Matthew 25:34-36 (ESV)  “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.  For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’”
• James 1:12(ESV)  “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

PRAY THIS PRAYER:  ”Lord you are good, and your mercy endures forever.  Forgive me in the areas where I have failed to glorify you in thoughts, words, and actions.  Help me to be mindful that what I do in this life will follow me in eternity. Teach me how to honor you through your word and by your Spirit.  Give me wisdom to leave a spiritual legacy not only for my family but also through acts of kindness and love to those around me. In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen.”