“These words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up”.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NKJV)
Parents often pass down inheritances to their children, typically in the form of physical or financial assets, to ensure their future security. However, as a believer, you have been granted much more than just material wealth from God, and your legacy should extend beyond physical possessions.
Throughout Scripture, we see this pattern clearly. The blessings God gave to Abraham were not limited to his lifetime; they were transgenerational, passed down to Isaac and beyond. In his old age, Isaac spoke blessings over Jacob and Esau, words that carried divine direction and secured their futures. Similarly, Jacob’s final words to his sons were not mere goodbyes, but prophetic declarations filled with spiritual authority. These blessings shaped the destiny of the twelve tribes of Israel (Genesis 49:1 – 28).
This reminds us that as we think about what we’re leaving behind, we should consider more than just physical things. Our words, our prayers, and our example of faith can become a spiritual inheritance that outlives us, impacting generations to come.
This same principle continues in the New Testament. When Jesus was about to leave the earth, He didn’t leave behind money or possessions. Instead, He gave His disciples and by extension you, the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20). This was His legacy, an instruction to carry on His work, backed by His power and presence to make a lasting difference in the world. He showed that a godly and purpose-driven life can be a great legacy to leave behind.
As a believer, what do you see? Do you envision all men celebrating endless life in Christ? As you set those images before you, it begins to affect every area of your life, including raising a family. Look at Abraham, for example; God could brag about him and his ability to train his household to do what is right (Genesis 18:17-19). This should be the same for you as a believer. Your legacy should go beyond earthly possessions. Like Joshua, you must be able to boldly declare that your generation will continue to serve the Lord long after you’re gone (Joshua 24:15).
Therefore, you must be intentional about how you raise your children, ensuring that the foundations and values they embrace are godly and lasting (Proverbs 22:6). Practically, this means being mindful of the environment your children grow up in such as their education, friendships, and media exposure as these influences can significantly affect their walk with God.
Being a visionary is more than building a successful life here on earth. It’s about making sure that the legacy you pass on to the next generation is a treasure that is eternal and will last in heaven (Matthew 6:19–20).
Bible Reading Plan: 1 Chronicles 23-25; Luke 8.19-39