“Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.” (2 Peter 1:15, AV)
As we get older, we begin to think about our children and grandchildren. What is it that we want them to remember when we are not longer on this earth? One of the things I want to do is to put together an album with a collection of pictures that might give a snapshot of our family’s history. Yet, I know that such a book will only sit on a shelf somewhere and collect dust that will be lost to future generations.
Yet, there are some things that are more valuable than our family history. They are truths that we want to pass on to our children and their children. What truths do we want them to know and never forget? We may look at certain virtues, like hard work, honesty, integrity, etc. We could write these things down in a book, kind of a writing of dad’s proverbs for his children. However, something more is needed. For I know that this book would also find itself on the shelf and be forgotten.
What we really need is to see the virtues of life imparted to our children and grandchildren in such a way as they would always remember them. We would want them to carry these around in their hearts and minds as a way of life so that their actions and words would always be in accord. This is what Peter is going after here.
Peter sees that the day of his departure is drawing near. As such, he has worked diligently to impart some truths to believers that they would never forget, even long after he is gone. Every true believer should also have this attitude towards the next generation. We should be working diligently to impart truths to those under our watch that they will never forget.
There are not any truths more vital than those of our faith. The question is this. How much time do we spend imparting these truths to our children and grandchildren? Many, like me, live hours away from our children. We only get to see them once or twice a year. How do we work diligently to influence them with these truths, seeing that we see them so infrequently? Let me say that there is a way.
First, be steadfast in the faith, aways seeking to live out your salvation. Do not compromise. Allow your legacy to be one of faithfulness. If this is your reputation, at some point your children and grandchildren will hear about it.
Second, be in prayer for them every day. God can do more in their hearts than we can through our words. The truths that we share will have no effect unless God changes their hearts.
Third, communicate your faith to them. Perhaps you cannot see them every day. Yet, you can write. You can phone. You can record your thoughts. In some way communicate the blessings of God in your life. Begin with a testimony of how God has saved you and the blessings that you have as a result.
Fourth, communicate to them with Scripture. Share key verses that have helped you in life. Include these in communications. Purchase a Bible for them and inscribe it with a message of hope. Constantly reinforce the truths that are so valuable to you.
Work diligently to impart the truth to those in your care. They need to hear and remember; God’s word will not return void. It always accomplished that which God pleases (Isaiah 55:11).
Renewing the Heart 