via TJC
The word of the Lord that came to Zephaniah son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hezekiah, during the reign of Josiah son of Amon king of Judah: ~Zephaniah 1:1
For most of my adult life I’ve been told how much I remind people of my Great-Grandfather (my grandmother’s father). He died a few years before I was born so we never had the opportunity to meet each other. I’ve been told that our mannerisms, our perspectives, personalities and how we approach problems are all very similar. Though we never met, I am told that he spoke blessings over his family line. I don’t know who he expected his great-grandchildren to be or what we thought we might do, but it is clear that he had a vision and words of wisdom that he thought were important to set in motion.
Zephaniah is in a similar situation. In his introduction we learn that he is a great-grandson. We learn that his linage is important to him. In fact, no other prophet traces their linage back four generations. Zephaniah conveys the Word of the Lord with familiarity for where Judah has been and where they are headed. He lays out in vivid detail the consequences of their choices, while at the same time securing for the remnant the promises of God’s redemptive nature.
My great-grandfather was not the first to speak over his family. I’m sure he did it because the Father modeled it. I’m told he was both strict and kind. He believed in accountability, while exercising grace and humility. He set his children on a path. He delighted to see them grow and held them accountable because joy, maturity and accountability go hand-in-hand. His words and deeds manifested into the promises and opportunities the my generation enjoys today.
Daily Battle Order:
Consider what are you doing now for four generations from now? How do you speak to your family and neighbors? What examples are your children and grandchildren learning from you? After you’re gone, will it be a compliment for someone to tell your great-grandson that he reminds them of you? Stop and pray for your great-grandchildren. Pray for your example and legacy you are giving them.
A heartfelt and genuine DBO. Draws a picture beyond my thoughts of legacy.