Grandmother with a Purpose

Being a grandmother, Gigi, Nana, Gran…or whatever you’re called is a special blessing, but it’s also a special calling. Listen to what Paul says about Timothy’s grandmother…

2 Timothy 1:4,5 Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

Lois had a profound impact in Timothy’s life!

Louisa May Alcott said, Every house needs a grandmother in it.

How special a grandmother makes a child’s life! She can add so much fun and adventure, but God’s Word elevates a grandmother to an even higher position. When she deposits the Word of God in the lives of her grandchildren, she can have a profound influence in their lives.

How can we do that? Here are two important areas in which we make an impact…

1. Take the admonition in Psalm 78 and pass down God’s Word to our children so they can then pass it down to their children. This means that our grandchildren will be benefactors from the trickle down effect of our teaching. Oh, this is more valuable than any material possession we could pass on to them! You can also be the one to teach and instruct them.
   
   • Teach your grandchildren…
     The Gospel
     What God has done in your life. What practical lessons have you learned? Share those awesome stories!
     How to pray. Pray with your grandchild and model this life of prayer before them.
     How God has answered your prayers. Tell them how the Lord has heard your requests and answered – even with a “no.” What valuable lessons you can share!
2. Be a support for your children as the parents!
   • Help your children with their role as mother and father by supporting what they’re teaching your grandchildren.
   • If your children are in a second marriage and there are other grandparents, don’t be afraid to speak about Christ to your grandchild. Pray for wisdom about when and how to speak. Remember, you can trust a sovereign God. Let your conversation flow naturally about the Lord. Tell them about how the Lord has helped you in a scenario that they may be facing.
   • Be sure to hold to the rules your children have set for your grandchildren. Don’t allow them to do things the parents have forbidden. They need to know you’re going to support the things they’re trying to teach the children. It’s not our privilege to spoil our grandchildren, but to support and enforce the rules and behaviors that are being taught.

Take every opportunity for fun, but more importantly, point them to Christ and support the parents at every opportunity!

You can hear more on the Refresh Her Podcast.

How will you refresh the life of your grandchildren (and your children) this week?