Pass It On!

Psalm 78 is all about sharing. Sharing God’s goodness, His faithfulness from one generation to the next.

• Our fathers told us. (verse 3)
• We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. (verse 4)
• Make them (God’s laws) known to their children (verse 5)
• For the unborn generation to come (verse 6)
• They (sons) should arise and declare God’s laws to their children. (verse 6)

With what purpose? I love this: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not steadfast with God. (verses 7-8)

Today, even in our churches, we find parents or grandparents who know God and love His Word and strive to obey His laws. Yet, their children and grandchildren may not even attend church. Part of the problem could be that Grandpa and Grandma neglected to communicate God’s goodness to Mama and Papa. Mama and Papa know God personally, but they didn’t pass joyful faith on to their sons and daughters. Instead, they bought them things, clothes, and gadgets. Instead of showing them good, clean family fun, they substituted amoral (or immoral) movies and music. Their children were allowed to choose what they wanted to do and not expected to obey their parents.

Years later, Mama and Papa wonder why Susie and Junior don’t care about church and might not even know God at all.

The Bible gives us many examples of parenting, some good, and some bad.

I admire Grandma Lois and Mama Eunice. (1 Timothy 1:5) Lois passed her faith in Jesus Christ on to her daughter Eunice, who in turn influenced her son Timothy to love God (a young pastor discipled by the Apostle Paul).

In sad contrast was the priest Eli’s permissive parenting, which ultimately resulted in his sons’ deaths. The Bible says they knew not the Lord (1 Samuel 2:12). Eli was told his sons would be punished because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not (1 Samuel 3:13).

Let’s be like Lois and Eunice! 

Let’s encourage our children and our grandchildren in God’s ways. 

Let’s show them the joy that comes from walking with God!

Would you like to share practical ways to share the Lord with children or grandchildren? If so, please feel free to leave a comment.