Legacy and the Last Days

Have you seriously considered the long term consequences or results of your lifestyle; more specifically, your walk with the Lord? In the Christian community we often talk about the ripple effect. Think about that concept in relation to legacy. Whether or not you're aware of it, your way of life not only affects those currently around you, but also generations to come. What if our great grandchildren and those who follow would care less about Jesus Christ? That's a terrible thought, but consider what the Bible has to say about the last days. It would behoove us to pay attention.

1 Timothy 4:1-2 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron (see also 2 Timothy 3:1-5).
We see these characteristics currently playing out in today's society. How much of this is the result of the previous generations' lifestyle? To be clear, everyone is ultimately responsible for his or her own actions; nevertheless, everyone's life influences others in one shape or another. There was a period of time when much of the Church disengaged society, and lost influence as the result. What about us? Can we cause a young child to stumble? Of course. As a matter of fact, we can cause other adults to stumble as well (see Matthew 18:6; Romans 14:12-23). When parents compromise their walk, do you suppose it influences the children? Like it or not, children pay more attention to what you do than what you say. They learn more by the example than by what is said. One cannot get away with saying he is a Christian, but lives like the world. Children see right through that hypocrisy; in fact, everyone does. People become unfruitful when they get caught up in the world. What are your priorities?
If we want to see the following generations to make it into heaven, then we have to make it. If we want to see them walk with Jesus, then we have to walk with Him. When considering the consequences of our actions, why would we want to compromise? Young and old alike crave authenticity. It gives them hope.