What steps can we take to preserve our spiritual heritage for future generations? The Alert of Exodus 1:8 “Then a new king, who did not know Joseph, came to power in Egypt.” A single generation forgot God’s saving acts and His servant Joseph. The result was bondage. Forgetting is lethal to faith; remembering is life-preserving. Remember and Retell God’s Works • Rehearse testimonies of God’s faithfulness around the table, on the road, at bedtime (Psalm 78:5-7; Deuteronomy 6:7). • Record family stories, answered prayers, spiritual milestones; read them aloud on birthdays and holidays. • Sing songs that recount redemption (Exodus 15; Revelation 15:3-4). Model Uncompromised Obedience • Children learn what we live, not only what we say (1 Corinthians 11:1). • Let integrity mark business, marriage, screen time—every corner of life (Deuteronomy 6:17-18). • Celebrate repentance quickly; show that course corrections are part of genuine discipleship (1 John 1:9). Establish Visible Memorials and Rhythms • Physical reminders—scripture plaques, baptism photos, a worn-out family Bible—anchor memories (Joshua 4:6-7). • Weekly worship, Lord’s Supper, and Sabbath rest keep the story in circulation (Exodus 20:8-11; 1 Corinthians 11:26). • Annual feasts or family traditions—Passover-style meals at Easter, thanksgiving services—cement identity. Teach Scripture Intentionally • Read aloud whole books, not just favorite verses; let God set the agenda (Nehemiah 8:8). • Memorize passages together—start with Psalm 23, John 1, Romans 8. • Train children to handle the Word themselves (2 Timothy 3:15). Guard Against Cultural Assimilation • Evaluate entertainment, curricula, and friendships through the lens of truth (Romans 12:2). • Define non-negotiables early—Jesus is Lord, the Bible is true, church is family. • Like Daniel, resolve before pressure comes (Daniel 1:8). Invest in the Next Generation’s Leadership • Spot budding gifts; invite youth to read Scripture publicly, lead worship, share testimonies (1 Timothy 4:12-14). • Disciple “faithful men who will be qualified to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2). • Provide mentors, internships, mission trips to stretch faith muscles. Pray and Bless Persistently • Speak blessing over children and grandchildren as Isaac and Jacob did (Genesis 27; 48). • Keep a prayer list by name and promise; record fulfilled petitions (Colossians 4:2). • Gather with other believers for corporate intercession; united prayer shapes legacy (Acts 12:5). Live Ready for a New Pharaoh A generation that “knew not Joseph” could rise again. Vigilance today secures liberty tomorrow. By remembering, modeling, memorializing, teaching, guarding, investing, and praying, we hand an unbroken, vibrant faith to those who follow. |