As grandparents, we are responsible for shaping and influencing the next generation through what I call “Purpose-Driven Grandparenting.” So, what contribution can we make while living to lead them with a profound purpose? Here are five tips to encourage us to pass along an exceptional legacy to our grandchildren.
Pray for Your Grandchildren Daily
With purpose-driven grandparenting, the most important thing we can do for our families, especially grandchildren, is to pray for them daily. Stand in the gap—Intercede for their souls. The enemy has a target on their back and will seek to destroy them. First Peter 5:8 says, “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”
Lead Them to Jesus
Purpose-driven grandparenting calls us to live our lives in a way that points our grandchildren to Jesus. A popular quote, often attributed to Francis of Assisi, says, “Preach the word at all times; when necessary, use words.” Although we can have great dialogue about our faith with our grandchildren, our actions will almost always speak louder than our words.
Words are still important, however, so we should do what we are admonished in Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.”
Refuel Your Body, Soul, and Mind Regularly
We can’t give what we don’t possess. Purpose-driven grandparenting can be hard work. A tired warrior is more likely to be defeated. How do we keep up with the demands of life? We stay connected to our source of strength through prayer, care for our bodies by giving them plenty of water and nutrients, and get plenty of rest. We meditate on the Word of God, our Daily Bread. Taking care of ourselves allows us to care for others, especially our grandchildren.
Never Be Afraid to Apologize
“If you mess up, fess up” is a good rule. We lead by example and want our grandchildren to know it’s ok to mess up, but if you do, you should take ownership of it. Sometimes adults think they don’t have to apologize to children. Purpose-driven grandparenting means we must show them the way in everything, including apologizing when we mess up. Don’t ever be too proud to apologize.
Have Fun!
As adults, sometimes we take life too seriously. There’s a time and place for that, but there are many times when we need to loosen up a little and have fun with our grandchildren. We aren’t as young as we used to be and may not want to play Candyland for the 30th time today, but most children spell love, T-I-M-E. Purpose-driven grandparenting means we don’t miss out on making memories. Making a snow angel might mean an extra load of laundry, a hot shower, and some cocoa, but the memories you make will last forever.
Final Thoughts
Purpose-driven grandparenting means making the most of every opportunity with those who matter most to you. Live each day like it’s the last day of your life – because it could be. Consider what values, wisdom, experience, stories, and attributes you possess to pass along to the next generation that will shape and influence them, and take the time to do it. They will appreciate it more than you know! These are some ways you can be a purpose-driven grandparent and leave a lasting legacy for them to carry to their grandchildren.
