We will all leave a legacy, whether we plan for it or not; we each will leave our mark on the world. As a grandparent, what do you want your children, grandchildren, and others to take from you?
Your immediate thought may go to the finances or possessions you want to leave for your children and grandchildren. However, he dollars and objects are not the most important legacy you will leave. Psalm 112:1-2 says, “Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments. His descendants will be mighty on earth; the generation of the upright will be blessed.” The greatest legacy you can leave for those coming after you is one of faith and delight in the Lord.
The Importance of Leaving a Legacy as a Christian Grandparent
Our grandchildren are watching our actions, attitudes, and allegiances, and the things they see will be imprinted on them for the rest of their lives. Our job is to model what it looks like to live the abundant life in Christ. How do we do that when it comes to leaving a legacy? There are two ways to do that:
- Store up heavenly treasures.
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”—Matthew 6:19-21
Where is your heart? This verse teaches us that your heart follows your treasure. Leaving a legacy of faith and obedience to God is worth more than all the riches of the world. There are only two things in this world that last forever: the Word of God and the souls of men. Investing your time, talent, and treasures into these things is how you store up treasures in heaven.
2. Use your life to glorify God.
“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold.”—Proverbs 22:1
When future generations search your name, what will they find? This verse emphasizes the value of leaving a legacy of integrity. While money and possessions can be lost or spent, a good reputation and the favor of others are lasting treasures. Prioritizing your character and relationships above the pursuit of wealth builds trust and brings genuine fulfillment.
As you live an abundant life in Christ, you will be able to leave a legacy of faith, wisdom, finances, and obedience.
Leaving a Legacy of Faith
Being actively involved in our grandchildren’s lives and making memories for them to build on is the foundation of leaving a legacy of faith. The strength of a humble and praying grandmother and mother is credited for teaching young Timothy the Scriptures from a young age, shaping his faith that led to his eventual ministry with Paul.
- “…that I may be filled with joy, when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.”—2 Timothy 1:4-5
As we share our faith journey along with the stories of those who have gone before with the current generation, we instill godly values that can change lives for eternity. Being purposeful each day and ensuring our actions and attitudes align with our beliefs allows us to invest in our children’s and grandchildren’s future. We are modeling biblical principles that will forever be a part of the legacy we leave.
Leaving a Legacy of Wisdom
As grandparents, we can train and mold tender-hearted youth into vessels for God. This is an opportunity that we should not miss. The wisdom of experience is our greatest resource to draw from in sharing life lessons that will influence and create the legacy that we leave.
- “Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.”—Proverbs 22:6
One of the wisest things we can teach our grandchildren is to be content with what God has given us. 1 Timothy 6:6-9 says, “Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.” Other lessons we can teach from experience might include…
- Contentment
- Trust
- Humility
- Serving
- Diligence in work
Leaving a Financial Legacy
Teaching stewardship from a biblical perspective means the financial legacy you leave will continue to be used in a way that glorifies God. It is biblical to leave some financial provisions for your children. In fact, Proverbs encourages people to prepare for their future and leave an inheritance for their children.
- “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, But the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.”—Proverbs 13:22
However, we know that children do not need the money most. They need to be instilled with essential values and memories that lead their hearts to love God. If you want to leave a legacy of generosity, start now to model that for your children and grandchildren. You have the ability to shape how they view their time, talents, and treasures.
Leaving a Legacy of Obedience
Leaving a legacy of obedience is priceless. A legacy of faith through obedience and trust in God can change the world. We must remain mindful of the legacy we’re leaving for future generations. Our focus need not be on ensuring a large amount of cash, stock, and real estate is passed on, but rather on making sure our grandchildren know the importance of listening to God’s voice and obeying Him.
- “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”—Matthew 6:33
Our impact on our grandchildren can carry down to their children and their children’s children. What impact do you want to leave for the generations that follow? You have a purpose in God’s plan. The difference you make in the lives of others will echo throughout all eternity.
Takeaway
What kind of legacy are you leaving? The Bible provides a wealth of wisdom on how to leave a legacy and honor God with the blessings He’s given us. Remember, God doesn’t want anything from us except our hearts. If we give our hearts to Him, He will guide us in the best way to leave a legacy for the generations after us.
Building a legacy begins with learning and practicing contentment, because what you value shapes how you live. Click here to learn how to value heavenly treasures and build a lifestyle that honors the Lord!