The word "inherit" may bring to mind cash and possessions, or even genetic and personality traits. Yet the Bible talks about something else that can be passed down to the next generation, and it is the most precious thing we have: our faith!
In 2 Timothy 1:3-7, Paul writes to Timothy about faith worth passing down, namely, that which is based on the truth of God's Word. It is the confident conviction that God is who He says He is and will do everything He says He will do. The apostle notes that the younger man's sincere faith did not materialize out of thin air, but in fact was evident in his lineage (vs.5).
There are many ways to hand down a rich legacy of faith to the next generation:
1. SHARE BASIC BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES
Kids must be taught the proper attitude about money (Ps. 24:1), how needs are fulfilled (Phil. 4:19), and direction in life (Pro.3:5-6).
2. MODEL THROUGH LIFESTYLE
How we live - with transparency, peace, and persistence or fear, doubt, and frustration - sends a loud message about whether God can be trusted.
3. SERVE GOD BY SERVING OTHERS
If we act on our faith, we show it is real (James 2:26).
4. PRAY AND PRAISE
Children won't forget hearing us speak their names in prayer. And when we praise them for trusting the Lord, they will be motivated to do so again.
QUESTIONS TO PONDER:
- Do you know the basic Biblical principles for life?
- Are you teaching the basic Biblical principles to your children?
- Does your life and lifestyle model your faith in Christ?
- Are you a person who likes to be served or serve?
- Do you serve others together as a family?
- Do you have a daily prayer time?
- Do you pray with your family?
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