January 18, 2022
Influencing the next generation
My 17 year old grandson gives me prayer requests. We started this when he was little and I am thankful we still continue this special connection. Our spiritual relationship began as soon as he was born. I prayed over him as I rocked him in my arms. I read Bible stories to him as he grew and now we discuss Bible concepts and questions since we are both studying the same book of the Bible—him with a teen group on zoom, me leading a ladies group. This has guided us to some great discussions.
Recently, after hearing a sermon together it led to a conversation about the best way to encourage people to consider who
I didn’t really think about it when he was first born, but now I see clearly the power of that spiritual influence that has shaped his thinking and given him a spiritual foundation that will stand firm as he gets ready to go off to college next year. We have been living the verse “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 Now we need to be wise about the next season of spiritual influence when he steps out into the world of college. Lots of prayer is needed!
How about you? Have you considered the power of spiritual influence you have in the lives of your kids and grandkids, extended family and friends? They are watching your life and listening to you. As you show them love you are earning the right to share the truths of what you believe. As this year begins, consider “resolving” to be a spiritual influencer, not in med-blog.com , I’ve-got-to-do-this kind of way, but as an intentional change in lifestyle that will make a difference for eternity. The fact is—you ARE a spiritual influencer—will it be an influence that will draw people to the truth and to Jesus, or will it be the opposite influence?
By Jeannie Blocher, Fort Wayne, Indiana
® in 1981 and she currently serves as the Director of Spiritual Impact, leading a dedicated team of Instructors in creating spiritual resources for the ministry. Jeannie loves spending time with family, which now includes 9 grandchildren, spread over three states. She loves encouraging both family and Body & Soul® friends to grow in faith & fitness!here
Jeannie and her husband Roy Blocher founded Body & Soul® in 1981 and she currently serves as the Director of Spiritual Impact, leading a dedicated team of Instructors in creating spiritual resources for the ministry. Jeannie loves spending time with family, which now includes 9 grandchildren, spread over three states. She loves encouraging both family and Body & Soul® friends to grow in faith & fitness!
