2 Timothy 1:3-5
The most precious thing we can pass down to our children is our faith—the confident conviction that God is who He says He is and will do all He has promised. Timothy’s strong relationship with Christ didn’t materialize out of thin air; it grew because his mother and grandmother were godly examples.
Here are some ways that we, too, can hand down a rich legacy to the next generation:
- Teach practical biblical principles. Kids need to know God’s views on: material wealth (Ps. 24:1); the way to meet needs (Phil. 4:19); and direction in life (Prov. 3:5-6).
- Model character through lifestyle. How we live—whether with transparency, peace, and perseverance, or with fear, anxiety, and self-reliance—loudly communicates what we believe about our heavenly Father.
- Serve God by serving others. Actions show that our faith is real (James 2:26). If we want children not to develop a self-centered perspective, servanthood is key.
- Intercede for them. Kids won’t forget hearing us pray regularly for them.
- Communicate love to them. Young people need to know we love them the way that God loves us—unconditionally rather than based on what they do or don’t do. Spoken words of love breathe life into their hearts. And as we affirm them for trusting God, they see that we value their spiritual growth.
As parents, we must be intentional about leading and inspiring our sons and daughters to follow Jesus Christ. But even people without children of their own can leave a legacy. The example to follow is Paul: Though neither married nor a natural parent, he was a spiritual father to many. (See 1 Cor. 4:14-16.)
