Written by Camellia Varnado, Author and Podcaster | ORIGINALLY POSTED ON LEGACY COALITION
As grandparents, our perspectives are often shaped by years of experiences, including the good and challenging. Our life experiences give us a unique ability to see the good in various situations and share that outlook with our grandchildren and the wider community.
Here are some practical ways to cultivate and cause a ripple perspective:
Cultivating a Positive Vantage Point:
- Daily Gratitude: Start each day by thanking God for specific blessings. Get a gratitude journal and encourage your grandchildren to do the same (or gift one to them). Share your entries with them and listen to theirs, fostering an atmosphere of thankfulness. This creates an atmosphere of praise to God.
- Mindful Moments: Take time to notice and appreciate small blessings—like a beautiful sunrise, a kind word, or a moment of laughter. Point these out to your grandchildren to teach them to find joy in the simple things. Laughter is good medicine for our souls.
- Reflect on God’s Faithfulness: Regularly reflect on and share stories of God’s faithfulness throughout your life. Whether it is answered prayers, unexpected blessings, or times of growth during hardships, these stories can inspire your grandchildren to trust in God’s goodness. It is a reminder that the same God is faithful to them throughout their life.
Sharing the Good with Your Grandchildren
- Storytelling: Use your personal stories to illustrate how God has been at work in your life. Share times when you saw His hand guiding you through difficulties and celebrate His blessings with your grandchildren. Take advantage of those opportunities to share stories from your life that show the goodness of God! Talk about the little miracles in your life – a healed illness, a job opportunity that came through, a mended relationship. Let your grandchildren see how God is constantly working in the world, even in the seemingly ordinary!
- Celebrate Achievements: Recognize and celebrate your grandchildren’s achievements and milestones. Highlight their strengths and encourage them to see their own potential and the good in their efforts. Be intentional about being their biggest fan in life!
- Model Positivity: Be a role model of a positive attitude. Let your grandchildren see you manage challenges with grace and faith. Your actions and words will teach them how to approach life’s difficulties with a hopeful heart. It is always in our actions not only our words!
- Start a tradition: of family devotions, reading scripture together and discussing its meaning. Even a short daily devotion can plant seeds of faith that will grow with your grandchildren.
Seeing the good is also about overcoming challenges. Life is not always good BUT remains good. Leaning on our faith during these challenges shows our foundation to see the good in challenging times. Praying for wisdom and strength is part one. Our subsequent trusting and depending on God demonstrates our reliance on God to our grandchildren.
Do not hesitate to seek support from your church, friends, or professional counselors. This not only helps you cope better but also shows your grandchildren the importance of seeking help and community and not being ashamed. Maintain strong relationships with your grandchildren, children, and other family members. Open communication and a supportive network can help you stay positive and resilient and keep isolation at bay.
By seeing the good and sharing it with your grandchildren and community, you cultivate a legacy of positivity and faith. Your intentional efforts to focus on the good will not only enrich your own life but also inspire those around you to live with hope, gratitude, and joy.
Grandparents hold a special place in families. They are the bridge between generations, keepers of stories, and a source of wisdom and love. However, for Christian grandparents, the role takes on an even greater significance. We can not only nurture our grandchildren but also pass along a legacy of faith. I remember those talks with my grandmother, those stories of obedience, accompanied by her tender hug. Not only do I remember; I have shared those same stories with my children and grandchildren.
Now as grandparents, we face our own set of challenges. Here are some spiritual truths and practical tips to keep in mind:
- Grandparenting takes patience. Do not get discouraged if your grandchildren do not seem interested in faith right away. Keep planting seeds, and trust that God will water them in His time.
- Prayer is the most powerful tool we have. Pray for your grandchildren’s hearts to be open to God’s love and for them to grow in their faith.
- Your grandchildren are watching you. Live your faith authentically, and let your actions speak louder than words.
Intentional grandparenting is a beautiful way to leave a lasting legacy of faith. By sharing your stories, supporting your local church, and living your faith authentically, you can make a difference in the lives of your grandchildren for generations to come.
Remember, even amid challenges, focus on “Seeing the Good” – God is always working in our lives, and He will use you to raise up a generation of faithful followers.
