Fathers and Families

Fathers and families remind us that we are part of a greater legacy. Honor your heritage and seek to leave a godly impact on future generations.

“Take a census of all the congregation of the sons of Israel, by their families, by their fathers’ households.”—Numbers 1:2 NASB

When God told Moses to count His people, they were to indicate their “ancestry in their families” and clans (v. 18). God was communicating a principle. He was interested in them not only as individuals but also in relationship to their past generations.

This same principle is still true. God loves us individually and has a plan for each of our lives. But none of us is isolated from those who have gone before us. We are part of a tradition, a line, a process.

Moses made this clear to the children of Israel as they were about to enter the Promised Land. Decisions and actions had been made in the wilderness by the older generation, but Moses spoke to the younger generation as though they were the ones who had made the decisions and were the ones God had spoken to (Deuteronomy 5:2–5).

In many ways, we represent the fruit of the lives of our fathers, mothers, and families. Without them, we wouldn’t exist. We learn from them and their life experiences. We often carry on their feelings, thoughts, attitudes, and actions.

Today, remember that you don’t exist in isolation. You have a history, a heritage, and a family. Honor and pray for your family.

You also are part of the body of Christ. You have a vital role to play in fulfilling God’s plans, and your life will leave a legacy for those who come after you.

Reflection Question: How can you honor your family and leave a godly legacy?