Making This World a Better Place: Leaving a Positive Legacy

In today’s fast-paced, secular society, it is increasingly evident that many families do not uphold traditional values and godly principles. As we scan through the headlines, we often read about the breakdown of familial bonds, the rise of individualism, and the diminishing presence of faith in our communities. Statistics reveal a troubling trend; for instance, many individuals who identify as Christians lack basic biblical literacy, struggling to articulate core beliefs or identify foundational events in the Christian faith. Despite such disheartening observations, there remains a beacon of hope for those proactive in leaving a positive legacy. This essay will explore how we can make the world a better place through three pivotal actions: developing character through obedience, nurturing godly heritage over time, and standing in the gap for generations to come.

## Joshua 4:1-11: Memorializing Our Faith

The story from Joshua 4:1-11 provides a compelling narrative on the importance of creating lasting memories of faith. In this passage, after the Israelites crossed the Jordan River, God instructed Joshua to select twelve men, one from each tribe, to gather stones from the Jordan's middle. This act aimed to create a memorial for future generations to remember how God intervened and delivered His people. This poignant reminder implies that the legacies we build today will etch profound impressions on our children and future generations, making it essential to embody and impart values that align with God’s character.

### Character is Formed Through Obedience

The formation of character begins within the family unit. William James once articulated that character is best defined by moments when one feels most alive and engaged with their moral compass. Character fundamentally indicates who we are in our hearts and guides our interactions with the world. John Wooden summarized it succinctly: "Your character is what you really are; your reputation is what others think you are."

Drawing from Joshua’s obedience to God’s directives, we observe that the Israelite families were urged to follow specific protocols set out for their benefit. The priests holding the Ark of the Covenant served as spiritual leaders, embodying God’s commands and leading the people into the promised land. This conveys a clear message: obedience to God lays the groundwork for building character. When families prioritize living according to God’s will, they nurture the very foundation of their character.

Dad playing catch with his kids.

In contrast, failure to emphasize biblical principles may have dire consequences. Historical accounts such as that of Max Jukes reveal a stark truth: lack of spiritual leadership leads to generational decay, with his descendants suffering numerous negative outcomes. Conversely, Jonathan Edwards exemplifies the positive impact of a godly legacy, showcasing how diligent spiritual training can yield influences that uplift society.

Ultimately, Proverbs 22:6 echoes this truth: “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not turn from it.” The family must deliberately cultivate obedience to God's commands, as character formation directly influences individual actions and contributes to the overall betterment of society.

### Godly Heritage is Built Over Time

Understanding that character is shaped by obedience, we must also recognize that a godly heritage is created through dedicated and sustained efforts over time. The simple act of spending time with family can create profound impacts, as illustrated by a poignant story about a young boy eagerly seeking his father's attention and time. The cost of the father’s absence appears minimal in monetary terms but represents a much more significant emotional and spiritual deficit. The boy's desire to "buy" an hour of his father's time emphasizes the urgency and necessity of connection within the family structure.

Greg Vaughn's initiative, “Letters from Dad,” illustrates how something as simple as writing letters can foster relationship-building. He emphasizes intentionality—a commitment to devote time to family members and cultivate a lasting legacy. As a father dedicates time to foster connections, he nurtures not just memories but instills eternal values in his children.

A godly heritage is not constructed overnight; it requires continuous effort and dedication. Families are pillars of faith within society. The spiritual values passed from one generation to the next shape communal perspectives and influence future decisions. As time progresses, the legacy of faith becomes woven into the very fabric of family culture, creating a sense of belonging and purpose.

### Standing in the Gap for Future Generations

While we courageously build character and develop a godly heritage, it’s essential that we also stand in the gap for generations to come. Within Joshua 4:10-11, we see the priests faithfully holding the Ark of the Covenant as the uproar of the Jordan subsides, creating a path for Israel to cross. Their collective obedience is paramount, representing a bridge to God’s promises and act of intercession. Much like Jesus, who stood in the gap for humanity, taking on our sin and reconciling us with the Father, we too are exhorted to advocate for the upcoming generations.

In a world where many children lack positive role models, there is an urgent need to intercede for them—be it through prayer, mentorship or simply being present. We must model godly characteristics, offering the younger ones a tangible example of what it means to live righteously. Children and adolescents look to adults for guidance, and how we treat them plays a significant role in their development. 

As segments of our society increasingly stray from biblical values, it becomes crucial for believers to stand resolutely in the gap. The responsibility to foster a loving, nurturing, and godly atmosphere rests alongside each of us. Through acts of love and service, we can contrast the negative narratives that pervade our culture, reminding the younger generation of the power and goodness of God.

## Conclusion: Leaving a Positive Legacy

The journey of making this world a better place revolves around our commitment to leaving a positive legacy. By forming character through obedience within our families, building godly heritage over time, and standing in the gap for future generations, we equip ourselves to embrace the responsibility of instilling faith, hope, and love in the lives of those around us.

In the book, “How God Made This World a Better Place,” by Dr. David Wright we find a wonderful publication of this very subject. Pick up a copy today. Within its pages, you will find a wonderful set of stories that illustrate the principles of this article. I drew my inspiration for this article from it. When I was serving at Indiana Wesleyan University as Director of Alumni we reprinted this book and handed out thousands of copies. 

Though external societal pressures might suggest otherwise, we bear the light of Christ, and with that comes the opportunity to reflect His character in an imperfect world. The scriptures remind us of our duty as stewards of faith, evoking a sense of urgency in our pursuit of nurturing the next generation. 

As we work diligently to leave this world better than we found it, let us lean into God's promises, empowering ourselves and others to carry forward His legacy. With every stone we lift, every moment spent, and every prayer offered, we contribute to a powerful movement that transforms lives and communities. In doing so, like the Israelites, we build lasting memorials of faith that will stand as beacons of hope for generations to come.