Grandparents hold a special place in families.
They offer wisdom, love, and guidance, shaping the lives of their grandchildren in ways that can last a lifetime.
Many people see grandparents as a source of strength and comfort, a link to the past, and an anchor for future generations.
But what does the Bible say about grandparents?
Does Scripture give them a special role?
Are there biblical examples of grandparents who influenced their families?
The Bible speaks often about family and the importance of passing down faith from one generation to the next.
By exploring biblical teachings, we can better understand the role of grandparents and the impact they have in God’s plan for families.
Grandparents as a Blessing
The Bible makes it clear that grandchildren are a gift and that having a grandparent is a blessing.
Proverbs 17:6 says, “Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.”
This verse shows that grandparents should take joy in their grandchildren, seeing them as a precious reward in life.
A crown is something valuable, a sign of honor and dignity.
Just as a king wears a crown as a symbol of his reign, grandparents can see their grandchildren as a sign of their legacy—a continuation of their family’s faith and values.
Grandchildren are not just an extension of the family; they are a source of joy, pride, and fulfillment.
God designed families to be connected across generations, and grandparents play a vital role in that design.
Passing Down Wisdom and Faith
One of the most important roles of grandparents in the Bible is passing down wisdom and faith to younger generations.
Psalm 78:4-6 speaks about the responsibility of teaching future generations about God’s goodness:
“We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.”
Grandparents have the opportunity to teach their grandchildren about God’s faithfulness, sharing personal stories of how He has worked in their lives.
Their years of experience give them a unique perspective on faith, patience, and trusting in God’s timing.
In Deuteronomy 4:9, Moses gives this command:
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live.
Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”
This verse shows that faith is meant to be passed down through generations.
Grandparents are called to share what they have learned, helping their grandchildren grow in their relationship with God.
Biblical Examples of Grandparents
The Bible gives us several examples of grandparents who played an important role in their families.
One of the most well-known examples is Lois, the grandmother of Timothy.
In 2 Timothy 1:5, Paul writes:
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.”
Lois was a woman of strong faith, and she passed that faith on to her daughter and grandson.
Her influence shaped Timothy, who later became a key leader in the early church.
This shows the power a grandparent’s faith can have in shaping the future of a family.
Another example is Naomi, the grandmother of Obed.
In the book of Ruth, Naomi loses her husband and sons, but she remains faithful to God.
Her daughter-in-law, Ruth, stays with her, and eventually, Ruth marries Boaz.
Ruth and Boaz have a son named Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David.
In Ruth 4:16, we see Naomi’s special relationship with her grandson:
“Then Naomi took the child in her arms and cared for him.”
Naomi, despite her hardships, embraced her role as a grandmother, loving and caring for Obed.
Her story shows that grandparents can find joy and purpose even after experiencing loss.
Encouraging and Supporting Their Grandchildren
Grandparents have the unique ability to provide encouragement and support to their grandchildren.
While parents are often busy raising their children, working, and managing daily responsibilities, grandparents can step in as a steady source of wisdom and encouragement.
Isaiah 46:4 offers a beautiful promise for older generations:
“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”
God does not abandon people as they grow older.
He continues to use them, giving them the strength to bless their families.
Grandparents can encourage their grandchildren in times of doubt, reminding them of God’s faithfulness.
They can offer advice, share life lessons, and be a listening ear when their grandchildren need someone to talk to.
A Source of Stability in the Family
In many families, grandparents serve as a foundation of love and stability.
When life gets difficult, their presence provides reassurance and guidance.
Proverbs 16:31 says, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.”
This verse shows that growing older is not something to fear—it is an honor.
Grandparents have gained wisdom through their years, and their experiences make them valuable leaders in the family.
Many grandchildren look to their grandparents for guidance, especially during tough times.
Grandparents can help bring peace to family conflicts, offer a calming presence in times of stress, and serve as a role model for patience and grace.
The Responsibility of Grandparents in Discipline
While discipline is primarily the responsibility of parents, grandparents can also play a role in guiding their grandchildren toward good choices.
Proverbs 13:24 states, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.”
This does not mean grandparents should take over parenting responsibilities, but they can offer wise counsel and gentle correction when needed.
Titus 2:2-4 speaks about the role of older men and women in teaching younger generations:
“Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.
Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live…
Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children.”
This passage shows that older generations have a responsibility to guide and teach younger ones, not just in faith but in life.
Praying for Their Grandchildren
One of the greatest gifts a grandparent can give is prayer.
Praying for grandchildren covers them with God’s protection, wisdom, and guidance.
Lamentations 2:19 encourages parents and grandparents to pray for their children:
“Pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord.
Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children.”
Grandparents can pray for their grandchildren’s health, faith, friendships, and future.
They can ask God to give them wisdom, strength, and a heart that seeks Him.
Prayers do not go unheard—God listens, and He responds in His perfect timing.
Final Thoughts
The Bible speaks highly of the role of grandparents.
They are a blessing to their families, a source of wisdom, and an example of faith for future generations.
God designed family relationships to last beyond one generation, and grandparents have the special role of passing down their faith and life lessons.
Through encouragement, stability, and prayer, they shape the hearts of their grandchildren in powerful ways.
Whether through sharing stories, teaching about God’s love, or simply being present, grandparents make an impact that lasts for generations.
No matter their age or stage in life, God continues to use grandparents as a vital part of His plan for families.