Intentional Grandparenting: Leaving a Lasting Legacy of Faith
Summary
### Summary
Happy Grandparents Weekend! Today, we celebrate the incredible role grandparents play in our lives. Christy and I are blessed with five grandchildren, and we know firsthand the joy and chaos they bring. Grandparenting is a unique opportunity to influence the next generation, and the Bible offers timeless wisdom on this subject. Psalm 78 provides a blueprint for how we should approach grandparenting, parenting, and even being an influential family member or friend.
The Bible commands us to teach our children and grandchildren about God's glorious deeds and His commandments. This is not a suggestion but a divine mandate. We must be intentional in our efforts, ensuring that God's word is not hidden but actively taught and lived out in our homes. Joshua 24:15 echoes this sentiment: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." This means making a conscious decision to live a life that reflects God's love and teachings.
Our influence extends beyond our immediate family. Whether you're a grandparent, parent, aunt, uncle, or a close family friend, your actions and words can leave a lasting legacy. We must live lives of integrity and godliness, knowing that the seeds we plant today will bear fruit for generations to come. This intentionality is crucial because our children and grandchildren are constantly watching and learning from us.
We also need to bring our children into the presence of God, not just to check off a religious duty but to immerse them in an environment where they can experience His love and grace. This includes regular church attendance, family devotions, and open conversations about faith. Our goal is not just to make our children happy but to ensure they are blessed by God, understanding that His will is the best for their lives.
Finally, we must remember that our journey with God doesn't end as we age. Psalm 71:18 reminds us that even in our old age, we have a responsibility to proclaim God's power to the next generation. Our legacy should be one of faith, integrity, and unwavering commitment to God's word.
### Key Takeaways
1. Intentional Teaching: The Bible commands us to teach our children and grandchildren about God's deeds and commandments. This is not optional but a divine mandate. We must be intentional in our efforts, ensuring that God's word is actively taught and lived out in our homes. [05:04]
2. Living a Legacy: Our influence extends beyond our immediate family. Whether you're a grandparent, parent, or a close family friend, your actions and words can leave a lasting legacy. Live a life of integrity and godliness, knowing that the seeds you plant today will bear fruit for generations to come. [06:38]
3. Presence Over Ritual: Bringing our children to church is not about fulfilling a religious duty but immersing them in an environment where they can experience God's love and grace. Our goal is to ensure they are blessed by God, understanding that His will is the best for their lives. [12:04]
4. Continual Influence: Even as we age, our journey with God doesn't end. Psalm 71:18 reminds us that we have a responsibility to proclaim God's power to the next generation. Our legacy should be one of faith, integrity, and unwavering commitment to God's word. [22:31]
5. God's Will Over Happiness: Our ultimate goal for our children and grandchildren is not their happiness but their blessing. We want them to be blessed by God, understanding that His will is the best for their lives. This requires a commitment to walk in integrity and godliness, setting an example for them to follow. [20:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[00:46] - Grandparenting Joys
[01:23] - Grandparents' Special Rules
[02:07] - The Revenge of Grandparents
[03:14] - Biblical Principles for All
[04:07] - Psalm 78: Teaching God's Deeds
[05:04] - Command to Teach
[06:38] - Legacy and Influence
[07:42] - Generational Impact
[08:37] - Intentional Living
[09:16] - Showing and Telling About God
[10:27] - Generations on Our Heels
[12:04] - Presence Over Ritual
[13:19] - God's Word and Will
[14:10] - Commitment to Teaching
[15:13] - Children's Ministry Impact
[16:11] - Praying and Worshiping Together
[18:13] - Leading by Example
[19:29] - Grace and Mercy
[20:59] - God's Will Over Happiness
[22:31] - Continual Influence
[24:08] - Fruitful in Old Age
[25:14] - Declaring God's Justice
[26:15] - Invitation to Salvation
[28:49] - Prayer of Salvation
[30:32] - Celebrating New Believers
[31:31] - Legacy Church Commitment
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 78:4-7 (NIV)
> "We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands."
2. Joshua 24:15 (NIV)
> "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."
3. Psalm 71:18 (NIV)
> "Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come."
### Observation Questions
1. According to Psalm 78, what are we commanded to teach the next generation? ([04:07])
2. What decision does Joshua 24:15 highlight for families? ([08:37])
3. How does Psalm 71:18 describe the role of older generations in sharing faith? ([22:31])
4. What are some specific ways mentioned in the sermon that we can bring our children into the presence of God? ([12:04])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to be intentional about teaching God's deeds and commandments to our children and grandchildren? ([05:04])
2. How can living a life of integrity and godliness leave a lasting legacy for future generations? ([06:38])
3. What does it mean to prioritize God's will over the happiness of our children and grandchildren? ([20:59])
4. How can the presence of God in our homes and churches impact the faith of the next generation? ([12:04])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own family or close relationships. How can you be more intentional in teaching God's word and deeds to the younger generation? ([05:04])
2. Think about your daily actions and words. How can you live a life of integrity and godliness that sets a positive example for others? ([06:38])
3. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure that your children or grandchildren experience God's presence regularly, beyond just attending church? ([12:04])
4. How can you balance the desire for your children's happiness with the goal of them being blessed by God and understanding His will for their lives? ([20:59])
5. Identify one specific way you can proclaim God's power and mighty acts to the next generation, even as you age. ([22:31])
6. How can you create an environment in your home where faith conversations are natural and frequent? ([09:16])
7. What is one change you can make this week to prioritize God's will in your family's life over societal expectations or personal desires? ([13:41])
Devotional
Day 1: Intentional Teaching: A Divine Mandate
The Bible commands us to teach our children and grandchildren about God's deeds and commandments. This is not optional but a divine mandate. We must be intentional in our efforts, ensuring that God's word is actively taught and lived out in our homes. This means creating an environment where faith is not just spoken about but demonstrated through our actions and decisions. By doing so, we fulfill our God-given responsibility to pass on His teachings to the next generation.
Intentional teaching involves more than just formal instruction; it requires us to model a life of faith and integrity. Our children and grandchildren learn from what they see us do, not just from what they hear us say. Therefore, we must be diligent in living out our faith in everyday situations, showing them how to apply God's word in real-life contexts. This intentionality ensures that the seeds of faith we plant today will grow and bear fruit in the lives of our descendants. [05:04]
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Reflection: Think of one specific way you can intentionally teach your children or grandchildren about God's deeds and commandments today. How can you incorporate this teaching into your daily routine?
Day 2: Living a Legacy of Faith and Integrity
Our influence extends beyond our immediate family. Whether you're a grandparent, parent, or a close family friend, your actions and words can leave a lasting legacy. Living a life of integrity and godliness is crucial because the seeds you plant today will bear fruit for generations to come. Your legacy is not just about what you say but how you live your life in accordance with God's word.
Living a legacy means being mindful of the example you set for others. It involves making choices that reflect your commitment to God and His teachings. By doing so, you create a ripple effect that can impact not only your family but also your community and beyond. Your life becomes a testimony of God's love and faithfulness, inspiring others to follow in your footsteps. [06:38]
Proverbs 20:7 (ESV): "The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!"
Reflection: Reflect on your daily actions and decisions. Are there areas where you can better align your life with God's teachings to leave a lasting legacy of faith and integrity for those around you?
Day 3: Presence Over Ritual: Immersing in God's Love
Bringing our children to church is not about fulfilling a religious duty but immersing them in an environment where they can experience God's love and grace. Our goal is to ensure they are blessed by God, understanding that His will is the best for their lives. This means prioritizing their spiritual growth over mere ritualistic practices, creating opportunities for them to encounter God in meaningful ways.
Presence over ritual involves engaging in activities that foster a genuine relationship with God. This includes regular church attendance, family devotions, and open conversations about faith. By doing so, we help our children understand that their relationship with God is not about checking off religious boxes but about experiencing His love and grace in their daily lives. [12:04]
Psalm 16:11 (ESV): "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
Reflection: How can you create an environment in your home where your children can experience God's love and grace beyond just attending church services? What specific actions can you take today to make this a reality?
Day 4: Continual Influence: Proclaiming God's Power
Even as we age, our journey with God doesn't end. Psalm 71:18 reminds us that we have a responsibility to proclaim God's power to the next generation. Our legacy should be one of faith, integrity, and unwavering commitment to God's word. This continual influence ensures that our faith is passed down, inspiring future generations to follow God wholeheartedly.
Continual influence means staying active in your faith journey, regardless of your age. It involves sharing your experiences and testimonies with the younger generation, showing them the power and faithfulness of God in your life. By doing so, you encourage them to trust in God and seek His guidance in their own lives. [22:31]
Psalm 71:18 (ESV): "So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come."
Reflection: Think of a younger person in your life who could benefit from hearing about your faith journey. How can you share your experiences and God's faithfulness with them this week?
Day 5: God's Will Over Happiness: Seeking Divine Blessing
Our ultimate goal for our children and grandchildren is not their happiness but their blessing. We want them to be blessed by God, understanding that His will is the best for their lives. This requires a commitment to walk in integrity and godliness, setting an example for them to follow. By prioritizing God's will over temporary happiness, we guide them towards a life of true fulfillment and divine blessing.
Seeking God's will over happiness means teaching our children and grandchildren to trust in God's plan for their lives. It involves helping them understand that true joy and fulfillment come from aligning their lives with God's purposes. By doing so, we prepare them to face life's challenges with faith and confidence, knowing that God's will is always for their ultimate good. [20:59]
Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV): "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."
Reflection: How can you help your children or grandchildren understand the importance of seeking God's will over temporary happiness? What practical steps can you take to guide them in this direction today?
Quotes
1. "The principles that God gives to grandparents are applicable to every one of us. Whether you're a grandparent, great-grandparent, you're an aunt, an uncle. Maybe you're just one of those, you know, family members. Maybe you're a friend who's like family and you have influence with your friend's children. It doesn't matter what season of life you're in. The Bible, somebody say the Bible, is applicable to all of us." [03:14] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God gives a command to those of us who are blessed with children and grandchildren, and that command is to make sure we are teaching our children what does the Bible say, where does the Bible say it, and what are you going to do about This is a command from the Lord our God. It is not a suggestion." [04:07] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "See, this generation needs to know what does the Bible say? Where does the Bible say it and what they're going to do about it? And I'm going to show you a few things here as we go through this, but it goes on to say in this text, where are we at? Verse six, so that the next generation might know them. Listen to this." [06:38] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "As parents and grandparents, the Bible calls us to grandparent and parent intentionally. To live lives on purpose, for a purpose. And part of that purpose is to have an influence in our children and grandchildren, knowing that the seeds that we sow are going to bear fruit. And God says, man, grandparenting and parenting, it's no, it can't be by accident and has to be intentional. It's got to be on purpose." [07:42] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We bring our children to church. Because it is good. To be in the house of the Lord. Amen. But not to be in church. As the organization. It is good to be in the house of the Lord. Because when we come to his house. We find ourselves in his presence. And it is in the presence of God. Where everything changes. Where hope is restored. Joy is found. Amen." [10:57] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "We can't make you obey God's word. But I can tell you this. I'm going to make sure you know God's word. That we can make sure. That what we're going to do. We're going to dedicate our lives to the Lord God almighty. And we're going to encourage you. Listen I'm going to show you Jesus kids. We're going to show you Jesus grandkids. In our house. In the house of the Lord." [14:10] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We're committed to praying for our kids and grandkids. And praying with our kids and grandkids. Like our kids. We have little devotions. When they're small. We get to read the children's bible. We get to pray with them. And then they grow up. And they morph into tweenagers and teenagers. How many are raising a tweenager or teenager? Right now. Right now. Look around the auditorium." [15:45] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We're going to extend to our children and our grandchildren. What Jesus freely extends to us. Grace and mercy. That doesn't mean we're not going to have some eyeball to eyeball serious conversations. Amen. But it does mean you will be loved with an unfailing unconditional love. The same love that Jesus extended to me. I want to give to you. And I'm going to share God's word. And we're going to share God's word again. Why? His word. His will." [18:53] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "I don't want my kids to be happy. I don't want my grandkids to be happy. You know what I want them to be? Blessed. I don't want their happiness. I want God's blessing. I want God's favor. You see. Because the generational. Teach you. Love things. Use God. Use people. No, no, no, no, no, no, no. That's backwards. We need to love God. Love people. And use things. Because at the end of the day. The stuff. It all fades away. But loving God. And loving others. That's eternal. Amen." [20:59] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "I want my life to be fruitful. For the glory of God. And the blessing of my children. And the blessing of my grandchildren. That's God's. That's God's goal. That's what God wants from us. That we would be walking. So step in step with God. And integrity and godliness. It would be vital." [25:14] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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