Sisters in Faith
The Stories Families Tell
By Tia McCollors
“You shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” Deuteronomy 11:19
Family reunions are a place to devour Grandma’s famous sweet potato pie and convince her to pass along the recipe. Old memories are shared under the willow trees at the same time that new ones are created. We pass down stories of old to share the trials that have made us stronger, and the faith that pulled us through. We tell the stories to our children so they learn about the importance of family and love so they can continue the tradition. They remember what we say, and what we do. Perhaps this tradition reaches further back than our family name. God told the children of Israel to keep His commandments close to their hearts and to pass them along to their children. They were to speak of them at home, when they rose in the morning and before bedtime at night. Consequently, God would multiply their days. A Godly heritage is a treasure worth sharing.
Practical Application: When’s the last time you shared the gospel with the next generation? We are encouraged in Psalm 78:4 to openly (and often) share of the Lord’s glorious deeds. Others will find strengths from your testimonies and be heartened to share theirs as well.
Prayer: Thank you Lord for Your hand at work in my life. You have cared for, protected, and provided for my family for countless generations and for that I’m grateful. I will share of Your goodness and Your mighty acts.
Tia McCollors is a wife and mother who loves to encourage women to wear their faith like a designer label. Information about her inspirational novels and devotions can be found at www.tiamccollors.com.