If you’ve ever wondered how to share your faith with grandchildren, these ideas will give you practical ways to live out that calling. I’ve read quite a few explanations of what grace means. Here are a few common definitions: ’kindness’, ‘the appearance of moving effortlessly (well that’s getting harder all the time haha!)’ ‘to make more attractive by adding something special’ and ‘favor, often unearned, from God’. It is the last definition that I am most intrigued by, especially when I spotted Christian author Larry McCall’s book Grandparenting With Grace.
As I read this book, I highlighted a few portions that stood out to me personally and thought I would share then with you. They are presented as 8 opportunities for us to incorporate into our lives as we model a life of grace to our grandkids.
Faith is a main component of both me and my husbands lives, and the lives of our grown kids. So we are all on the same page here. If you, or your family do not share the same perspective on faith, I believe you can still find valuable truths and application opportunities in many of the 8 opportunities to grandparent with grace we share below.
In This Post
1. Study and Share: Psalm 145
Psalm 145 reminds us of God’s greatness and goodness. Honestly it’s just a great portion of scripture to help us understand all the ways we can share with others goodness of God. Verse 4 states “One generation commends your works to another”. What does that look like? It can be very simple, and very conversational. Here are a couple of ideas:
- When you write a letter or send a card to your grandkids, include an encouraging Bible verse that correlates with what is going on in their life.
- If you are together and crafting away, you can draw or write about God’s greatness and share with them why you created what you did.
If you’re looking for ways to share your faith with grandchildren in a natural, everyday way, Psalm 145 provides a great foundation.
Check out the PLUS packs for simple easy connection ideas via mail and video chat every month. Including an a piece of scripture and encouragement is a natural way to share faith with grandchildren while utilizing these easy prep connection ideas!
2. Pray Daily for Your Grandkids
Prayer is a powerful gift you can give your grandchildren. Pray for their health, faith, friendships, and future.
- Keep a prayer list with their specific needs.
- Share answered prayers with them to demonstrate God’s faithfulness.
Additional Idea: Invite your grandkids to share their prayer requests with you during phone calls, texts or visits. Do not share their requests with others without their permission.
3. Build Bridges: Openness with Your Grown Kids
Strong relationships with your grown children set the stage for a healthy grandparent-grandchild connection, and an opportunity to model grace.
- Ask how you can support them as parents.
- Be open to discussing past challenges or misunderstandings.
Additional Idea: Write a letter of encouragement or gratitude to your grown kids, affirming their parenting efforts.
Healthy communication with your grown children can create even more opportunities to share your faith with grandchildren in ways that are welcomed and appreciated.
4. Seek Forgiveness: Healing Past Hurts
None of us are perfect parents. Acknowledge past mistakes and ask your kids for forgiveness. This can strengthen family bonds.
- Pray for humility before having these conversations.
- Be specific about what you are apologizing for.
Additional Idea: Share how God’s grace has affected your life.
5. Create Memories: Plan an Adventure with Each Grandchild
Adventures don’t have to be elaborate; they just need to be intentional. These times together are incredible opportunities for learning more about your grandkid’s life, and how you might pray for and encourage them.
- Take a walk, go to a game, or bake cookies together.
- Let the child help plan the activity to make it extra special.
Additional Idea: Create a scrapbook or photo album to document these adventures.
6. Deepen Your Own Faith: Use a Prayer Journal
A prayer journal helps you stay intentional in your spiritual walk and leaves a legacy of faith.
- Write prayers for your grandchildren and reflect on Scripture.
- Share entries with your grandkids to encourage them in their faith journey.
Additional Idea: Include a section in the journal for your grandkids and invite them to add their own prayers or reflections. I know my grandkids would love this!
Leaving a written record of your prayers is a powerful way to demonstrate how to share your faith with grandchildren, showing them that you’ve been praying for them long before they even realized it.
7. ShareFamily History Through Photos
Photos are a powerful way to connect generations.
- Create a photo book with captions explaining family stories.
- Share photos during visits or video calls to spark conversations.
Additional Idea: Record a video together sharing about a recent time together. It’s a great way to preserve both your memories as well as the sounds of your voices during that particular season of life.
Don’t miss the opportunity to share how faith influenced these stories.
8. Extend Grace to Yourself
Remember, being a grandparent is a journey of learning and growing. Extend grace to yourself when you fall short, trusting that God is working through you.
Conclusion: Living Out Grace in Every Season
Grandparenting is an incredibly special role. By leaning into God’s grace and seeking His guidance, you can leave a legacy of faith, love, and wisdom that will bless your family for generations to come.
Related: Your Grandparent-Grandkid Toolkit for Maximizing Connections