While every family has numerous traditions, I want to encourage all grandparents out there to make the best use of the time give with your family (Eph. 5:15-17). Have you thought about the spiritual impact you are making on your children and grandchildren?
I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. -2 Timothy 1:5
Lois was seen as a pillar in Timothy’s life.
If you are a grandparent, let this inspire you to a calling in this new phase of life. While it is a favorite pastime of grandparents to spoil their grandchildren, make it all-the-more important to display your personal faith in the Lord before the next generations.
Don’t advertise your faith as mere church attendance; make it personal in the way you live your life.
If you are an empty-nester, your opportunity to impact your children or your grandchildren still exists. Many parents are consumed with regret once they discover God’s plan for parent-driven discipleship late in the game. Instead of living in guilt, parents can begin having conversations with their adult children that they should have had a long time ago.
Many of those conversations began by saying, “You know, son, I have recently realized that I didn’t do all that God wanted me to do when you were still in the home. I took you to church, but I rarely talked to you about my personal walk with Christ. Do you mind if I share with you some of the things that God has been teaching me lately?”
“Grandchildren, let’s get together because I want to share something with you. Did you know the other day I was reading my Bible and I came across a verse that made me think of you…”
Talk about an impact!
A humble, transparent parent having a spiritual conversation with his or her adult child or grandchildren will leave a lasting impact.
Many in our churches need to take a stand like Lois and change the lives of their own Eunice and Timothy. As a grandparent, God still has a purpose for you in this generation to make an impact for his Kingdom (Acts 13:36).
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.
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