Day 97: Passing the Mantle

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 78:4-6

Central Thought: Future generations will be blessed when we pass our beliefs to our children.

A tradition in many families is to pass down heirlooms from one generation to the next. In my family we have jewelry that has been worn by over six generations! When I wear my great-great grandma’s wedding ring, I know that I am touching a part of her life. What a privilege it is to know that one day I will pass that ring down to my daughter. But what I cherish more is the knowledge that I have already passed down my love for the Lord.

As I watch my daughter grow into a young woman, I see more and more of me in her. She has a free spirit, a devoted heart, and a spirit that is very gentle towards the Lord. I know it is because she has been given a solid foundation in the promises of the Lord.

There is no prouder moment for a parent than to see a child come to accept the Lord. What a great reward to know we are passing down the Lord’s favor and promise to a new generation. Just as we have touched lives by our devotion, they too will reach out and touch a younger generation.

In 2 Kings 2:1-15 Elijah is taken up to heaven and Elisha takes up his mentor’s cloak. With this physical act, Elisha is also embodying the spiritual act of taking up Elijah’s ministry. The Lord uses Elisha’s obedience to reach His people. Just like Elisha, our children will take up the mantle that we pass down to them. By daily following the Lord our children will learn to walk with Him, and they will be blessed!

Devotional Prayer: Lord, help me to pass down to my children a heritage that will always be a positive influence in their lives. May they carry out Your will and walk in Your way.

Today’s Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 29:1-30:20; Luke 11:37-12:7; Psalm 78:1-31; Proverbs 12:19-20