JANUARY 30, 2010

PASS

IT ON!

Scripture Reading--Psalm 78:1-8

One of the most exciting events in track and field is the relay race. Not only exciting, the sport requires a great deal of teamwork and precise timing. Four runners are on each relay team, and the race begins with one of the fastest. Hopefully, he will give his team a good start. The middle runners are usually not the strongest, but the last one is the real speedster.

Each team member runs a certain distance and stays within defined boundaries. The key to a successful relay is the baton handoff from one runner to the next. Runners spend many hours perfecting the handoff, and every split second counts. The handoff must be done with great precision because it has won or lost many a relay.

Today's Scripture passage describes the passing on of faith from one generation to another. In fact, it makes reference to four succeeding generations: "our fathers" ( v. 3 ), our generation ( v. 4 ), our children ( v. 5 ), and "their children" ( v. 6 ). The progression is like a spiritual relay. Our generation is responsible to pass on the faith to the next generation so when we finish our part of the race, they are prepared to carry on for God.

God's purpose for your family is to raise up the next godly generation. the only way to be successful is to faithfully communicate God's Word to family members each day. Verse 7 describes three results of this education: ( 1 ) They will see God as their only hope, even in a hopeless world. ( 2 ) They will be unable to forget all that God has done. ( 3 ) They will learn the value of obedience to Him.

As you run your "race" for God, endeavor to be faithful in passing on a vital, living faith to those following behind you. Remember, they must carry the torch to the next generation.

ACTION POINT: Share with your family your spiritual goals for passing on the faith and for raising up the next godly generation.

--Jack Palmer--

READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN " 1 " YEAR: Exodus cc. 8-10