On Being A Christian Grandparent

On Being A Christian Grandparent

“I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” 2 Timothy 1:5 NIV

The effect we grandparents have on our grandchildren may not be fully realized until we can see the principles they live by and the adults they have become. Grandparenting will become one of life’s most rewarding experiences if we invest spiritually in our children and grandchildren, as Lois did with both Eunice, her daughter, and Timothy, her grandson. Paul’s letters to Timothy show us that the displayed faith of Grandma Lois has been a blessing to every generation since.

As we attempt to influence our grandchildren for Christ, we are changed, as I am sure Lois was, in at least three ways. First, we are drawn closer to God in dependence upon Him. Second, we become more concerned with the legacy we are leaving our children and their children. Third, we end up living more consistent, richer and fuller spiritual lives. As we pass along our values and see our children and grandchildren make decisions to follow Jesus, we see afresh that He must be first in our life, and everything else a distant second.

It’s harder to live a consistent Christian life in front of our grandchildren than in front of anyone else. They compare what they see with what they have heard about us from their parents. We become painfully aware of our spiritual shortcomings because we become increasingly aware of how much our grandchildren are watching us walk the path of faith. We are drawn closer to God as we see where we need to improve as Christians.

We will also become more concerned about the legacy we leave our families – not earthly things, but spiritual values that will affect them for the rest of their lives on earth and in eternity. We should pray that our grandchildren remember not only the good times we have had together, but also that we have helped them to know Jesus as their Savior and to live closer to Him as their Lord.

By Larry Ondrejack