May he become famous throughout Israel! He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. (Ruth 4:14–15)
“CHARLES,” said grandfather Spurgeon, “I have nothing to leave you but rheumatic gout; and I have left you a great deal of that.”
Reverend James Spurgeon left his grandson so much more than illness. Charles went to live with his grandparents at age one. Grandfather Spurgeon pastored an independent church with power. Under his guidance, young Charles fell in love with the message and ministry. Charles’ grandmother influenced him in a positive way also. She sat by the fire with an open Bible on her lap and spoke of the Lord. Goodhearted and kind, she taught Charles many lessons.
Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834–1892) became a preacher known worldwide. He was a prolific author of many types of works including sermons, commentaries, books on prayer, devotionals, hymns, and more. His publications remain popular today.
For Naomi from our Scripture reading today and for the Spurgeons, their grandparenting ministry became the most important thing they ever did for God. Both grandsons became famous. Obed, restorer of life, became the grandfather of King David, the most influential king of the Bible. And Charles H. Spurgeon became a “prince of preachers.” We can never underestimate the power of influence we may have over our children’s children.
Make a plan today to invest in the next generation and change the world.
Susan Browning Schulz is a wife and active mom of three grown children. She lives riverside in northwest Georgia and loves leading her small group.
