Written by Pastor George Posthumus, Associate Director of Pastors Division
Two things are on my mind often when it comes to my grandchildren.
First, maintaining a loving and grace-filled relationship with them. They need to hear expressions of love and kindness. Second, they need to hear me speak and talk about the Lord.
While being a great example must always be operational, speaking with them about things of God is crucial in fulfilling our biblical assignment from God.
Deuteronomy 4:9 says, “make them (things of the soul and of our God) known to your sons and your grandsons (NASB).” We need to talk about the Lord. We need to tell Bible stories and discuss them. A silent grandparent is a neutralized grandparent.
Here is an example my wife Linda and I used.
Colossians 1:13 says … “He rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son.” Two key words are found here – “rescued” and “transferred.”
At one of our dinner table discussions with grandkids, I shared a story of a rescue. Then I read this passage and spoke of the need of our soul– to be rescued from our sin and its consequences and for sanctification (transferred). I then shared my testimony of how God rescued me when I was a young boy. I then asked Linda to share her testimony (her rescue story). We kept it short. Then we asked our grandchildren, “Do any of you have a rescue story?” We were caught by surprise when each of the four grandsons at the table (ages 8-14) spoke of when they placed their faith in Christ. It was a night we will never forget.
Use Colossians 1:13 with your grandkids and see if any have a rescue story to tell. This time of the year (Easter) is a great time to share your story as well as to hear theirs.
May God bless the opportunities He places before you this season to share the living hope we have due to our rescue. Be sure to celebrate and record any special moments.
If you live at a distance and cannot do this in person, consider using Marco Polo, Zoom, Google chat, or other ways to share Colossians 1:13.
Editor’s Note: Larry Fowler’s newest book, My Wish of All Wishes, would also be a great way to share how much you desire your grandchildren to be in heaven with you. It is also a non-threatening way to share the gospel story with anyone. Buy the book here!
