Session 14

When you win, so do those around you

From Win at Home: A 14-Day Devotional

We are taught that to win, someone has to lose. We see this in sports, business, and entertainment. One person’s victory is another’s defeat.

But in the Christian life, when you win so does everyone in your circle of influence. The words we speak, the kindness we show, the priorities we set — all of these things leave an impact on our roommates, children, and neighbors.

When we’re walking with Jesus, it changes us and leaves a mark on everyone around us.

Years from now it won’t matter how much money we made or how many awards we received. Our legacy will come from the way we lived and how we made those around us feel.

When we take seriously the command to love the Lord with all our hearts, all our souls, and all our strength, it leaves an impression on our kids (Deuteronomy 6:5-7). Our story becomes their story, and then their kids’ story.

Some of us grew up in homes where this was modeled for us. Grandparents shared stories of God’s faithfulness with our parents that we’re passing along to our own kids today. Others of us are the first in our families to believe. And as we share what God has done, it creates a new branch in the family tree (Psalm 145:4-5).

Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue...” With every word we speak, we have the opportunity to give life to those around us, to make God’s ways and His salvation known. Are we up for the challenge?

You may believe that what you say and do only impacts you, but nothing could be further from the truth. Let’s commit to winning at home and seeing the legacy a life of faith leaves.

Reflect:

• What do you want to be known for? What do you want the legacy of your family to be?
  
• How have you seen God show up for you in the past?
  
• What is one example of God’s faithfulness you can share with someone today?