When we think of inheritance our thoughts usually go to financial inheritance and the passing down of family heirlooms. But if you still have grandparents in your life, you are enjoying the presence of a good inheritance.
Proverbs 16: 31 says, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.” Grandparents, have you ever thought of your gray hair as a crown?
Have you considered that everything you have done in your lives has come by way of righteousness and all the wrinkles (even if the wrinkle cream doesn’t work) and your gray or graying hair is a crown for those around you to see?
The legacy of faith that you pass to following generations is the greatest inheritance available to generation after generation. Deuteronomy 4:9 instructs you to not let the things you have experienced fade from your heart, and for you to teach them to your children and their children.
This passing down the faith from generation to generation is the most important legacy. Do not fail to do that.
How many times have you heard in a testimony “my grandmother prayed for me” or “the prayers of my grandfather kept me in line.” Don’t ever stop praying for your children and grandchildren. It is the most important thing you can do for them. When you don’t know what to do or what to say, pray more and say less.
When my oldest granddaughter was barely two, she loved saying the blessing. After every “Amen,” her response was “P’ay mo.’” Yes, sweet girl, we all ought to pray more.
Being a grandparent is not always easy but is well worth the work it takes. Respecting the boundaries of your children is the only way to create loving access to your grandchildren. Maintaining a good relationship with your children (and I include my in-law children as my own here) creates positive interaction for the whole family.
Don’t even think about offering unsolicited advice to your children about their childrearing because if they haven’t asked for it, they probably don’t want it. Work hard to stay in your God-given role of grandparents and you will bless the entire family.
I wish there was an easy way to do this, but it all hinges on unconditional love and prayer. Be liberal with your praise for their parenting and forgiveness if you feel slighted. We can only control our actions and reactions, not those of anyone else.
Above all, thank God daily for the privilege of being a grandparent and for His provision in allowing you to be part of your grandchildren’s lives. You are a treasure to them as they are to you. Make the most of that amazing, life-giving relationship.
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