03/02/2020
Grandparents Have Much to Give
A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability and goodness] to his children’s children, and the wealth of the sinner [finds its way eventually] into the hands of the righteous, for whom it was laid up.
─ Proverbs 13:22 AMPC
Family was always God’s plan. When He created our world, He established the family to demonstrate His truth of love and relationship. He meant for the younger to learn from older family members, and for the older ones to be respected and honored by their children and grandchildren. Grandparents are intricately woven into the fabric of God’s master plan. God’s Word says that grandchildren, like children, are a blessing from the Lord (Psalm 127:3).
Once removed from parenting responsibilities, grandparents should be a safe place for their grandchildren to thrive and grow, to be accepted, constantly encouraged and loved unconditionally.
Grandparents (especially those living for God) have a unique opportunity to share their wisdom, life experience, spiritual maturity and material blessings to their grandchildren (Proverbs 13:22).
The Bible holds wisdom for us through examples of grandparents, both bad and good. Joash’s grandmother, Athaliah, had all of her royal family executed when her son, King Ahaziah of Judah died, so she could rule the kingdom. His sister, Jehosheba, hid baby Joash until he was seven years old. Then the high priest brought Joash out and proclaimed him king of Judah.
We see a unique relationship between grandmother and grandson in the Book of Ruth. The love between the young widow, Ruth and her grieving mother-in-law, Naomi, produced the blessing of a grandchild she adopted as her own. That grandchild, Obed, became the grandfather of King David.
Whether you had great examples of grandparenting in your life, or not, God wants you to provide every good and perfect gift He has placed in you to your children and grandchildren.
Today’s One Thing
What have you learned in your life about God and family that He would have you pass on to your grandchildren? Take time this week to connect with your family and share life lessons learned in a fun way.