Mothers And Wives

Mothers And Wives

We will not hide these truths from our children but will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord. We will tell of his power and the mighty miracles he did.

Psalm 78:4

Max Jukes lived in New York. He did not believe in Christ or in Christian training. He refused to take his children to church, even when they asked to go. He has had 1,026 descendants; of those, 300 were sent to prison for an average term of thirteen years, 190 were public prostitutes, and 680 were admitted alcoholics. His family, thus far, has cost the state in excess of $420,000. They made no measurable contributions to society.

Jonathan Edwards lived in the same state at the same time as Jukes. He loved the Lord and saw that his children were in church every Sunday as he served the Lord to the best of his ability. He has had 929 descendants, and of these 430 were ministers, 86 became university professors, 13 became university presidents, 75 authored good books, and 7 were elected to the United States Congress. One was vice president of his nation. His family never cost the state one cent but has contributed immeasurably to the life of plenty in this land today.^a

What kind of heritage are we leaving for our children? Down the road, we’d all like to pass on some kind of monetary inheritance or a few pieces of furniture that will hold sentimental value. But we’d be wise to focus more on the inheritance with a value that cannot be measured.

Will we pass down a love for God and his Word; an example of truth, love, and mercy; and a grateful heart? These are the most valuable gifts we can give.

Father,

In our busy days as moms, please help us to think ahead to the kind of inheritance we wish to leave for our children. Help our words and actions to match. Amen.