Building People. Spreading Hope.

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Think in Generations


Our biggest mistakes in life are when we act without thinking. Friends tell us, “What were you thinking?” We’ve all done things in the heat of the moment that we’re not proud of. On the other hand, when we think and make deliberate choices, we’re creating a legacy.

Often people define legacy is how you want to be remembered. What you leave behind for others is important. But what you leave in people is eternal.

You are in your current situation because someone made sacrifices. In the Bible, Paul reminded Timothy about the sacrifices of his grandmother and then his mother. Timothy’s faith was attributed to the faith that was passed down to him through generations. In the same way, what you do (or don’ don’t do) today will remind the world of the person you were. Our actions speak not only for now but for generations to come.

This is why it’s so important to think before we act. This is why we should consider the consequences of our actions not only for the present but for the eternal future to come. Every time, we break a bad habit, we’re leaving a generational blessing. Every time we are being kind and showing favor to others, we’re leaving a legacy of favor for our children and grandchildren to walk into. Every time we forgive others, we’re storing up mercy for the people coming after us.

Sometimes we’re wrong to think that to leave a legacy is to live a perfect life. Of course, that is always preferable. But most of us don’t fall under that category. Sometimes, one act of making the right choice can create a life of legacy. That is what happened to a prostitute named Rehab. She hid the Israeli spies from their enemies. It brought favor in to her life. Did you know David and Jesus our Lord came from the bloodline of a prostitute! What a sobering thought! It shows how one act of your courage can leave you with a Godly legacy.

Some of you today are battling and tempted to take the easy way out. You’re ready to give up and throw in the towel. Nobody will ever blame you if you give up now but consider what it could have been! You could break this curse. You could have left your children in a better place. Your action will affect generations to come.

One of the most enduring legacies you can leave behind is what you do for the Lord. Everything you see is temporal but when you lift someone up, be kind to people and help someone in need – you’re creating an eternal legacy. Forty some years ago, a group of Sunday school ladies from America sent me $12 every month. I was a sponsored child in an orphanage. Today, I’m here touching millions of lives because of their small act of kindness and generosity. Friend, what is your legacy going to be? Are you a taker or a giver? Are you going to raise the bar higher? I believe God wants to make you immortal through your legacy. Think in generations to come! Live in such a way that will make it easier for those who come after you!

“For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well” (2 Timothy 1:5 NAS).

Change the World with the Message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

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