Leaving a legacy is something we often think about as we grow older or when reflecting on our life’s purpose. But what kind of legacy should we aim to leave behind? The Bible offers guidance on the impact we can have on future generations through our actions, character, and faith. Let’s take a look at what Scripture says about the legacy we leave and how we can live with eternity in mind.
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What Does The Bible Say About Leaving A Legacy
1 Chronicles 28:8
“Now therefore, in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the LORD, and in the hearing of our God, be careful to seek out all the commandments of the LORD your God, that you may possess this good land, and leave it as an inheritance for your children after you forever.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking and following God’s commandments in order to leave a lasting inheritance for future generations. It reminds us that our actions today can have a significant impact on the legacy we leave behind.
We should strive to live in obedience to God’s word, knowing that our faithfulness can result in blessings not only for ourselves but also for our children and future descendants.
Proverbs 13:22
“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is laid up for the righteous.”
This verse teaches us that part of leaving a legacy involves taking care of future generations by leaving them a spiritual, emotional, and material inheritance.
A good person thinks beyond their own needs and invests in the well-being and prosperity of their children and grandchildren. In contrast, the wealth of the wicked is often dissipated or ends up benefiting those who are righteous and upright.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
This verse reminds us that one of the most meaningful ways to leave a lasting legacy is by passing down faith and spiritual values to the next generation.
We are called to not only internalize God’s commandments but also diligently teach them to our children in everyday moments, incorporating them into our conversations and activities. By doing so, we instill a strong foundation of faith that can shape the lives of our descendants.
Psalm 145:4
“One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.”
This verse highlights the importance of sharing the stories and testimonies of God’s faithfulness from one generation to another.
By proclaiming and testifying about God’s greatness and the work He has done in our lives, we inspire and encourage the next generation in their own journey of faith. Leaving a legacy involves actively passing on the knowledge and experiences of God’s goodness and power.
Psalm 78:4
“We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.”
This verse echoes the sentiment of the previous verse, emphasizing the importance of openly sharing our testimonies and experiences with God.
As we recount the marvelous works of the Lord to our children and future generations, we are creating a legacy of faith that testifies to His power, love, and faithfulness.
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
This verse reminds us that raising our children with godly values is a vital part of leaving a lasting legacy.
By intentionally teaching and guiding them in the ways of the Lord, we equip them to navigate through life with wisdom and discernment. While they may stray at times, the foundation we have laid will eventually steer them back onto the path of righteousness.
Acts 16:31
“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
This verse highlights the significance of personal faith in Christ and its potential impact on our families and future generations.
When we embrace Jesus as our Savior, His redemptive work has the power to extend to our entire household. By sharing the Gospel and living out our faith authentically, we are sowing the seeds of salvation that can bear fruit in the lives of our loved ones.
2 Timothy 1:5
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.”
This verse emphasizes the significant role that previous generations play in shaping the faith of their descendants.
Timothy’s faith was encouraged and nurtured by the sincere faith of his grandmother and mother. As we walk faithfully before our children and grandchildren, we have the potential to influence their spiritual journey and leave a lasting imprint on their lives.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
This verse reminds us that in order to leave a legacy, we must be strong and courageous in the face of challenges and uncertainties.
As we trust in the Lord’s presence and guidance, we can overcome our fears and doubts, allowing our faith to shine brightly for future generations to see. By demonstrating unwavering faith, we inspire those who come after us to trust in God’s faithfulness as well.
Psalm 71:18
“So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come.”
This verse expresses the desire to continue proclaiming God’s greatness and works to future generations, even in old age.
Regardless of our age, we have the responsibility and privilege to pass on the knowledge and experiences of God’s goodness to those who will follow after us. Our faith should not diminish with time but rather grow stronger, inspiring others to trust in the Lord.
Titus 2:3-5
“Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.”
This verse highlights the vital role of older women in mentoring and guiding younger women in godly living.
Through their own example and instruction, older women are called to teach, nurture, and encourage younger women in their relationships, character, and devotion to God. By investing in the next generation, they contribute to a legacy of godliness and virtue.
Psalm 127:3
“Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.”
This verse reminds us that children are a blessing and a precious gift from God.
As parents, we have the privilege of nurturing and raising our children in a way that honors God. By investing in their spiritual growth, teaching them godly values, and modeling a life of faith, we can leave a positive and impactful legacy that extends beyond our own lifetimes.
Matthew 19:14
“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.’”
This verse emphasizes the value that Jesus places on children and their importance in God’s kingdom.
Leaving a legacy involves creating an environment where children are encouraged to seek and follow Jesus. By nurturing their relationship with Christ from a young age, we pave the way for them to become faithful disciples who continue to impact future generations.
Proverbs 17:6
“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.”
This verse illustrates the joy and honor that grandparents experience through the presence and influence of their grandchildren.
By actively investing in the lives of their children and grandchildren, parents and grandparents can cultivate a legacy of love, wisdom, and character. The relationship between generations is mutually enriching and brings glory to God.
Ephesians 6:4
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
This verse speaks specifically to fathers, emphasizing the important role they play in raising their children in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
By providing loving discipline and godly instruction, fathers can shape the character and faith of their children, leaving a lasting legacy that influences generations to come.
Psalm 103:17-18
“But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments.”
This verse celebrates the enduring love and faithfulness of the Lord, which extends from one generation to the next.
God’s blessings and promises are not limited to a single lifetime but are intended to reach future generations. By remaining faithful to God’s covenant and commandments, we participate in a legacy of righteousness and experience the ongoing manifestation of God’s love in our families.
Psalm 78:6-7
“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.”
This verse highlights the importance of intentionally passing on knowledge and experiences of God’s faithfulness to future generations.
By ensuring that the stories of God’s faithfulness are not forgotten, we empower the next generation to set their hope in God and continue the legacy of faith. The collective memory of God’s works strengthens their resolve to keep His commandments and walk in obedience for the glory of His name.
Psalm 92:14-15
“They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green, to declare that the LORD is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.”
This verse paints a beautiful picture of older individuals who continue to bear fruit and remain vibrant even in old age.
As we age, we can continue to declare the righteousness and faithfulness of the Lord, speaking out of the wisdom and experiences gathered throughout our lives. Our testimony can inspire and influence future generations, leaving a meaningful and impactful legacy.
Hebrews 11:7
“By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.”
This verse highlights the faithfulness of Noah in obeying God’s instructions to build the ark and save his family from the impending flood.
Noah’s obedience and unwavering trust in God’s promises set him apart and secured a righteous legacy for his family. By following his example of faith, we can navigate uncertain times and leave a legacy of righteousness for future generations.
2 Corinthians 9:6
“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.”
This verse encourages us to approach our legacy with a mindset of generosity and abundance.
When we sow generously in the lives of others, whether through our time, love, resources, or investments in their spiritual growth, we can expect a bountiful harvest. Leaving a legacy involves intentionally and generously sowing seeds that will bear fruit for future generations.
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of living our lives in a way that glorifies God and inspires others to do the same.
Leaving a lasting legacy involves shining the light of Christ through our actions, love, and service. By reflecting God’s character in all that we do, we influence and encourage others to follow in our footsteps and bring glory to our Heavenly Father.