Trees tell you a lovely story of how faith is passed from generation to generation through prayer. In the life cycle of a tree, a seed falls to the ground. When nourished with water and sunshine, it sprouts into a sapling that eventually matures and produces seeds of its own. In time, that same tree declines and dies, falling to the ground and creating a cushion of compost for new seeds. On and on the cycle goes – much like the one in today’s verse.

Faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you.

II Timothy 1:5

Timothy was charged with taking the apostle Paul’s letters from place to place, establishing God’s church of believers on Earth. Training for this important service didn’t come from a degree in ministry. His character was formed in his family tree. His mother and grandmother lived lives of faith and their prayers flew to God’s heart, providing nourishment for their little man to root and grow.

Today, take your place in the life cycle of faith. Pray for tomorrow’s believers in your family and in America, and live a life worthy to be emulated. Then you will offer the branch of faith in God to the next generation.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 78:1-7