Today we have our second interview with a contributor to the coming book for Christian grandparents, Grandparenting Through Obstacles. Abigail Paul’s story is especially unique in our book because it is the one story that is told from the point of view of the grandchild, rather than the grandparent.
Please enjoy Abigail Paul’s interview and insights today.
GTO: Abigail, what are you hoping our readers will gain or learn from the story you shared about your grandmother?
Abigail: We have to face the reality that life doesn’t always turn out the way we want it to turn out, but we also have the gift of communion with God. My grandmother taught me to keep praying, making prayer a natural, minute-by-minute experience. Developing that relationship with God, learning to depend on Him in good times and bad is paramount.
GTO: What lessons or spiritual habits do you most want to pass on to your own grandchildren one day?
Abigail: Walking daily with God as Lord, Friend, and Confidant. Too often we think Christianity means going to church or following a set of rules, but it’s actually a genuine relationship with our Creator. Jesus is as close as our very breath. I hope they can tell by my life, as I could by my grandmother’s, that talking with Him is a natural part of their day.
GTO: What do you think is the greatest challenge faced by children today, and what role do you see in grandparents helping them with this challenge?
Abigail: It’s easy to see how our world has spun out of control. More children than ever are raised by a single parent, a grandparent, or someone else. Even in two-parent homes there is often a lot of turmoil. Kids need to know they are precious. If we can point them to their Heavenly Father for their identity, so much will fall in place for them.
GTO: What can you tell our readers to encourage them to not give up on their kids or grandkids no matter how bad their situation might look?
Abigail: We need eternal perspective. God doesn’t just see today, He sees forever—past and present. He is a God who desires reconciliation with His creation. Our prayers for our kids and grandkids are prayers He delights in honoring.
GTO: What advice can you give our readers to help them become more intentional about imparting spiritual truths and values into their grandchildren?
Abigail: Little ones are always watching us. When they feel loved, safe, and important with us, they pay attention to the things that help shape who we are. Sharing Christ with them isn’t about a daily Bible lesson as much as living out our faith in our every day moments—praying not only before meals or at bedtime, but when there is a hurt or a joy. Sharing our faith can be as natural as saying, “Wow, God! Thank you for that beautiful rose!” in front of our grandkids, or praying for them when they are sad.
GTO: Is there anything else you’d like to add that wasn’t asked already?
Abigail: Taking time to listen to grandkids is so important. When they feel understood they are more likely to hear those things we long to teach them.
GTO: Thank you, Abigail, for sharing your insights today, and for sharing your story in Grandparenting Through Obstacles: Overcoming Family Challenges to Reach Your Grandchildren for Christ.
Next week we’re looking forward to interviewing another one of the book’s contributors, Lynn Leissler. Please join us then!
Grandparenting through Obstacles 