Let this be recorded for future generations, so that a people not yet born will praise the LORD. Psalm 102:18 NLT
You might be amazed if you studied how often the biblical record says to record, write, keep accounts of what has happened in your life. When I was praying and thinking about legacy, I googled “what does the Bible say about writing things down,” and immediately my screen was filled with dozens of Scripture lists.
A study of the many Scriptures about this reveals God’s purpose and plan. He knew from the beginning there would be no greater encouragement than tracking our journeys and remembering His presence throughout our lives. The way we live our lives is truly our greatest legacy, but then a record of those lives and how God has worked multiplies the benefits.
God calls us to leave records for numerous reasons:
- For remembrance and clarity. Important things happen, milestones we think we will never forget with our children, events that make us marvel, yet we get a little while past them and they have disappeared. Or the memories aren’t clear. We’re not sure what is accurate and what is not. God wants us to remember history and what He has shown and taught. He wants us to capture the visions and dreams He has given us.
- For faithfulness in future generations. God’s love extends far past us. He wants our children and grandchildren and all the generations to come to benefit from what God has done in our lifetimes. I am so grateful to get to share the stories of how my grandfather outran a coal mine cave-in where several were killed, and he dedicated his life to God to share the Gospel through His ordinary life so touched by God. My father’s stories of God’s presence in military combat and His provision through his 96 years are favorites told over and over in our family. They encourage us to believe.
- For inspiration and action. Recording the action of God in our lives and the tangible evidence of His presence inspires in hard times and encourages us and others to risk-taking faith.
You say, “But I’m not an author.” Yes, you are. We have it easy today. Perhaps you journal. Keep it up and write with an eye to people who will read it one day. If you don’t journal, no problem. You can record messages on your phone and save them permanently. (If you don’t know how, ask your grandchildren. Even my 6-year-old can tutor me! 😊) You can make videos. One of our treasured family videos is Dad’s interview of my grandfather about his life and testimony. You can do it.
- Great idea for a Christmas gift. Write or record your testimony and give a copy to each family member this year.