Scriptures on Legacy: What Does the Bible Say?

What Does the Bible Say About Legacy?

When we talk about legacy, we’re not just talking about money or possessions. Legacy is about the values, principles, and faith we pass down to our children and grandchildren. It’s about the lasting impact we have on the people around us.

The Bible doesn’t use the word “legacy” all that often, but the concept of leaving a lasting impact is woven throughout the scriptures. The Bible emphasizes the importance of passing on faith, values, and stories to future generations. It’s about more than just material wealth; it’s about the spiritual inheritance we leave behind.

This article explores key scriptures on legacy to help you understand what the Bible says about leaving a lasting impact that honors God and blesses those who come after you.

Biblical Legacy: What to Pass On

The Bible has a lot to say about what we should be passing down to those who come after us. Here are some of the key elements of a God-honoring legacy.

Stories of God’s Faithfulness

One of the most important things we can do is share stories about how God has worked in our lives and in the lives of those who came before us.

• Share God’s deeds. Psalm 78:4 encourages us to tell the next generation about the praiseworthy deeds of God, and Psalm 145:4 emphasizes celebrating God’s mighty acts across generations.
• Share personal testimonies. When we share our own experiences of God’s grace and provision, we strengthen the faith of those who will follow us. Testimonies are powerful reminders of God’s presence and power.

Guiding Truths

It’s up to us to provide instruction and a good example for the younger generation.

• Instruction and Example. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Titus 2:7-8 encourages us to leave a legacy that points to God’s goodness.
• Moral Principles. Teaching our children moral principles rooted in biblical values is crucial for a lasting legacy. We can model integrity, honesty, and compassion, demonstrating these values in action.

Opportunities for Service

We can also leave a legacy of service to others.

• Serving Others. Ephesians 2:10 highlights a legacy of good works, and using your gifts to serve others is a powerful way to leave a positive impact.
• Generosity and Giving. Generosity is a powerful part of a lasting legacy, modeling Christ’s heart and sharing resources to bless others and advance God’s Kingdom.

Generational Blessing

When we live a life of faith and righteousness, we can bring blessings to future generations.

• Faith and Righteousness. Psalm 112:1–3 emphasizes that the generation of the upright will be blessed.
• Prayer and Intercession. As Zechariah 10:1 suggests, we can leave a legacy through prayer. Praying for future generations is a powerful way to invest in their spiritual well-being.

Foundational Principles for Building a Lasting Legacy

If you want to leave a legacy based on faith, here are some concepts to keep in mind:

Cultivating a Relationship with God

If you want to pass along your faith, you must nurture your relationship with God through prayer and Bible study. Consistent spiritual disciplines deepen your understanding of God’s will and strengthen your connection to the divine.

Living a life in obedience to God sets a powerful example for others, too. James 1:22 says you should be a “doer of the word, and not hearers only,” so you can model your faith to those who come after you.

Intentional Mentoring and Discipleship

Share your faith, and model Christlike character to those around you. Discipling and mentoring others helps pass on your values and knowledge to the next generation.

Empower others, too. Numbers 27:18-20 tells how God told Moses to lay his hands on Joshua and give him some of his authority so the people would obey him. As you encourage and equip future generations to serve God, you’re helping them harvest their own crops of faith.

Living with Contentment and Avoiding Debt

First Timothy 6:6 says, “godliness with contentment is great gain.” Being content with what you have is key to financial satisfaction.

Proverbs 22:7 says, “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” Avoiding debt frees you to pursue God’s calling and help others along the way.

Generosity and Stewardship

Giving and sharing your resources are vital components of a faith-based legacy. Use your resources generously to bless others and advance God’s Kingdom.

Matthew 6:20-21 says, “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Focusing on spiritual treasures is more important than accumulating material possessions.

Key Bible Verses Illuminating the Path to a Godly Legacy

The Bible has plenty to say about legacy, and many verses speak to the importance of passing on faith, living a life of purpose, impacting future generations, and practicing financial stewardship and generosity.

Passing on Faith and Values

• Proverbs 22:6 – “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” This verse emphasizes the importance of starting spiritual training early in a child’s life. A lasting legacy is created when children are taught to follow God’s path.
• Isaiah 59:21 – “And as for me, this is my covenant with them, says the Lord: my Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children’s children, says the Lord, from this time forth and forevermore.” This speaks to a continuous legacy of faith passed down through generations. God’s word should be a constant presence in your life and the lives of your descendants.
• 2 Timothy 1:5 – “I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.” Paul acknowledges Timothy’s genuine faith, which he inherited from his grandmother and mother, highlighting the lasting impact of a godly heritage.

Living a Life of Purpose

• Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” We are created for good works, reflecting our faith through service and love, and creating a legacy of purpose. Our actions should reflect our faith, creating a legacy of service and love.
• 1 Peter 2:12 – “Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.” A legacy of integrity and ethical behavior leaves a lasting positive impression on those around you, even non-believers.
• John 15:16 – “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.” Our purpose is to produce lasting results through our faith and actions, leaving a legacy that endures.

Impacting Future Generations

• Psalm 78:4 – “We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.” Sharing stories of God’s faithfulness and the wonders He has performed inspires future generations to trust in Him.
• Joel 1:3 – “Tell your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children another generation.” This emphasizes the importance of passing down faith from one generation to the next, creating a continuous chain of belief.
• Luke 1:50 – “And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.” God’s mercy is a continuous legacy for those who honor Him, extending through time to bless future generations.

Financial Stewardship and Generosity

• Proverbs 13:22 – “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is laid up for the righteous.” This highlights the importance of responsible financial planning, ensuring that future generations are provided for.
• Matthew 6:20-21 – “But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This emphasizes the value of spiritual investments over material wealth. Focus on building a legacy of faith and good works that will last for eternity.
• 1 Timothy 6:18-19 – “They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” A legacy of generosity and good deeds secures a firm foundation for the future, leading to a life that is truly fulfilling.

Practical Steps to Building a Godly Legacy Today

You don’t have to wait until you’re older to start building a godly legacy. Here are some actionable steps you can take today:

Start with Prayer and Reflection

• Seek God’s guidance. Spend time in prayer, asking God for wisdom and discernment in making decisions that will impact future generations.
• Identify your values. Think about your core values and how they align with biblical principles. What values do you want to pass on?

Invest in Relationships

• Spend time with family. Prioritize quality time with your loved ones. Share stories, traditions, and values that are important to you.
• Mentor others. Look for opportunities to mentor and disciple others. Share your experiences, knowledge, and faith with them.

Serve Your Community

• Volunteer your time. Find ways to serve in your community and make a positive impact. Support causes that align with your values and beliefs.
• Give generously. Give to those in need and support organizations that are making a difference. Show future generations the importance of generosity.

Financial Planning and Stewardship

• Create a budget. Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to manage your finances. Plan for the future and make wise financial decisions.
• Avoid debt. As Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, “the borrower is slave to the lender.” Minimize debt and live within your means.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Summary

The scriptures remind us that a godly legacy extends beyond our immediate family. We can impact countless “spiritual children,” mentees, and our wider community. Our faith can echo through generations, long after we’re gone.

Daniel 4:3 reminds us that our legacy connects to God’s eternal kingdom. We should prioritize leaving a legacy that glorifies God and advances His purposes in the world.

Generosity is also a powerful component of a lasting legacy. By modeling Christ’s heart and giving freely of our time, talent, and treasure, we can benefit future generations in profound ways.

So, how can you build your godly legacy today? Nurture your relationship with God, invest in the lives of others, and live a life filled with purpose. Remember, the most important legacy you can leave is one of faith, love, and service. It’s a legacy that truly lasts.