Imagine a life without the struggle to earn a living. A life with a
sure source of funds for everyday expenses and even for luxuries.
Living on interest. These could just be some of things. the struggling
and even the middle class could only dream of. A reality only for the
upper crust.
Ask any parent, and they will say that apart from making ends meet,
they strive in their jobs to provide financial security for their
children. They want them to be comfortable, to have financial
advantage to enjoy experiences and have possessions, and have extras
for life emergencies. In this world, wealth can indeed provide a
headway for children.
But for us followers of Jesus, whose eyes have seen the truth, we know
that wealth can disappear in a moment. And that being born with a
silver spoon does not guarantee success both in one’s earthly journey,
and moreso in eternity.
“Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will
thrive like a green leaf.” Proverbs 11:28
And so as parents, what should we strive to give our children? the
Bible says we should prioritize giving them a Godly Heritage. We
should teach them about God and following Jesus, because this will
help them build their life on a foundation of faith.
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your
hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at
home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you
get up.” Deuteronomy 6:6-7
So how do we apply this lesson in our current life as parents? We
expose our children to church. Being young does not excuse them from
knowing and worshipping the God that created this world and provided
for us. We bring them to mass or Sunday service, we tag them along our
Bible Study sessions, and we allow them to witness and join church
activities.
“Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder
them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew
19:14
We must also expose our children to God’s word. Let us give our
children all the opportunity to listen to God’s word. Be it through
Sunday School or Kids’ Church. During mass. Through the books and
digital content we allow them to consume. Through the music that we
allow them to hear. It is never too early for them to be exposed to
the truth of God’s word and Jesus’ teachings.
Moreover, we must witness to them. We must tell them the good things
God has done for us in our lives. We must model to them our faith in
Jesus Christ, so that they too can grow in faith.
“Only be on your guard and diligently watch yourselves, so that you
don’t forget the things your eyes have seen and so that they don’t
slip from your mind as long as you live. Teach them to your children
and your grandchildren.” Deuteronomy 4:9
While having a Godly heritage would not guarantee a successful and
Godly life for our children as they grow into adulthood, it gives them
the advantage of knowing the truth of Christ.
“Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will
not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
It allows them to know God’s promises which they can hold on to when
times get difficult. Moreover, it gives them the assurance that even
if they fail or mess up, there is a God whom they can come home to. A
Savior who can rescue them from the pit and help them endure life’s
difficulties.
They will know that they have a Wonderful Counsellor who can help them
make God-honoring choices when we are long gone or unable to guide
them. A mighty God who will protect them and be their rock. An
Everlasting Father who will always be with them, merciful and gracious
enough to overlook their sins.
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the
peace of your children.” Isaiah 54:13
A Godly heritage may not equate to worldly wealth, but it is more than
enough to allow our children to live good lives. Lives of comfort
marked by abundance of precious moments with loved ones, peaceful
slumber, clear conscience, and God’s guidance. Truly, a life fit for
daughters and sons of the King of Kings.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to
ponder on Deuteronomy 6:4–9 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: What kind of heritage would you like to give your
children? Are you working towards leaving them possessions and wealth,
or a Godly heritage?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me
the opportunity to raise children, and bring them to you. Give me the
strength and confidence to continue leading them to you, so that they
in time could live God-honoring lives. Amen.
