Generations

A few weeks ago, I (Tom) was staring at pictures of our kids. As I looked at them, I began to thank God for each of them. After a few minutes, I felt inspired to begin praying not only for them, but for their children and their children’s children, and generations to come. I began praying for descendants we don’t even know, but will only exist because of our marriage.

When it comes to marriage, we often get caught in the mundane and the daily aspects of life. However, it is vital to remember how much really depends on our marriages and families. We not only are impacting our kids and their lives, we are impacting generations in some way. The choices we make now and our willingness to model for our kids a healthy marriage will continue to have an impact long after we are gone.

Isaiah 59 says, “And as for this is my covenant with them, says the Lord: my spirit which is upon you, and my words which I have put in your mouth shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your children, or out of the mouth of your children’s children says the Lord, from this time forth and forevermore.”

(Mia) It is definitely true that we model what they will come to expect in marriage. That perspective gives me an urgent motivation to do what I need to do to be a loving wife. It is so easy to get mad and petty in disputes, and there have been times when I have forced myself to address an issue or apologize for the sake of the kids. I didn’t want to, or wasn’t ready to, but I knew I had to. I want them to look forward to marriage, if that is God’s plan for them, with joy and truth.

So I have also prayed for them, asking God to bless our kids with good spouses. People who love God first, love their faith and are committed to reflecting God’s love to my kids. Our daughter Elsa asked me one night before bedtime, “Mama, who am I going to marry?” She is 3. And though I was sorely tempted to tell her what types NOT to marry, I told her, he has to be a good man, like her Papa. I hope she listens, because he is definitely giving her a standard to aim for and paving the way for a good future.

How does thinking of future generations impact your approach to marriage?