Don’t Keep it to Yourself

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power.”  Psalm 145:4 NLT

This morning as Debbie and I made a breakfast stop at Chic-fil-A, Debbie was greeted by a lady that knew her from a few years ago in her role as a hospice nurse. It was another great story of a “good death” for this lady’s mother. The woman is a strong believer today, but told how her mother made sure that the children went to Sunday School, but she didn’t exhibit faithfulness to church attendance herself.

However, as the mother faced the end of her life and as her dementia allowed her to reflect on the years of her youth, a strong faith came to the surface. This mother, was one who always took the approach of her faith being a “private thing.”

I was glad to know that the solid faith of the mother came out before she died, but what a lost opportunity for those conversations to take place in the prime of life.

Our children and grandchildren need to know of God’s love, His acts and His power…from us! God is more than the aloof deity that watches us from “a distance.” He is the up close and personal God, who desires us to know Him and His power. It was Paul the apostle who declared, “that I may know him and power of his resurrection.” (Philippians 3:10) May it be our desire for others to “know him and power of his resurrection.”

What do others need to know? We have some direction in Psalm 145. We read phrases and statements such as:

“awe-inspiring deeds…share the story of your wonderful goodness… Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. The Lord is good to everyone. They will speak of the glory of your kingdom; they will give examples of your power.” (Palm 145:8-12)

But that’s not all, the psalmist continues, The Lord always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. The Lord helps the fallen…The eyes of all look to you in hope; you give them their food as they need it…you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing…The Lord is close to all who call on him….He grants the desires of those who fear him…The Lord protects all those who love him;” (Psalm 145:13-20)

The list and descriptors are bountiful and powerful. They are encouraging and plentiful. We like to share with others the things that are important to us, and near to us. We talk about hobbies, interests, golf scores, vacations. We often share our views on a number of topics. So, let’s not be shy about sharing about the goodness and power of a great God, especially to our children and grandchildren.