Godly Grandmothers Needed

I had godly grandparents but they lived far away. Did you have the privilege of knowing your grandparents well? My maternal grandmother died when I was young so I don’t remember much about her. I lived over a thousand miles away from my paternal grandparents and long distance phone calls cost alot back then.  One week out of the summer we packed into the family station wagon and made the long journey to Wisconsin to see my dads’ relatives.  We were always made to feel special when we came.

There are many happy memories of visiting and playing with cousins but the most important truth I learned is that both grandparents loved God and His word. I watched and heard them pray. I wish I could have spent more time with them.

Psalm 78:5–7
…He commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children,  so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments;

Proverbs 17:6   Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.

 

My friends have told me that there is nothing like having a grandchild and scripture calls them a blessing.  With a  granddaughter on the way soon and I can’t wait to sing and read stories to her about Jesus.  I am very grateful that all of my children know Him.

There are many people who do not have children of their own but they can still be praying for our next generation. It is our responsibility, as The Church, to teach and train the next generation.  Children need godly role models from all walks of life.  Too many kids are growing up without parents that care about anything. It is a harsh world so how can we share the love of Jesus with the children in our church and neighborhood?  How can we be the “godly Aunt”  that they need to know? There are many possibilities such as teaching or helping with a summer church camp or by volunteering time or money in other ways.

In Biblical times ( and through many years)  children were considered possessions. They were to be seen and not heard, to simply obey and contribute to the family chores. Children were to never interrupt adult conversation or bother important people.  The book of Matthew retells that one time (maybe it happened on several occassions) when Jesus was teaching the crowds, a group of mothers brought the children to see Him.  They wanted to and ask for His blessing.  The disciples were very upset but Jesus told them to let the children come. I wish we knew if he asked their names and answered their questions.

 

 

 

Matthew 19:13–15     Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” And he laid his hands on them and went away.

 

Whether you are a grandmother or not you can be a powerful influence for the Kingdom of God in a child’s life.  Begin by praying.

Proverbs 31:25–26    Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.   She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.