This is part III of Dr. Jessica’s training for us as Ekklesia Leaders. We have had the privilege of spending the last three months with her. I hope you felt equipped not only for your own life, but equipped to better love your Ekklesias.
Whether we are conscious of it or not, we have been given a spiritual legacy from our parents, mentors and those closest to us. A spiritual legacy consists of the blessings that are passed down from generation to generation. This could be anything from a love for God’s word, to love for the church, or wanting to see others come to Christ. Many of us have had grandparents pray that we encounter Jesus and we have—that is a part of our story. In the same way, whether we know it or not, we also leave a spiritual legacy. Some examples:
- Ricky leads children’s worship and has led children in worship for decades. It’s the spiritual legacy he wants to leave the church.
- Pastor TJ used to hold prayer meetings at work. It’s part of the spiritual legacy he’s leaving at his workplace.
What are some of the spiritual blessings you are planting in your community or family?
What can prevent us from passing down a spiritual legacy?
- Transgression is knowingly disobeying. It is knowingly breaking a rule or law.
- Sin is translated as “missing the mark.” It is immature, ignorant action.
- Iniquity is a sin that is “genetic” or passed down from generation to generation unless there is true repentance. Some examples are infidelity, violence, rage, bitterness, poverty or a spirit of poverty, sickness, divorce, unforgiveness, worry, a critical spirit, a domineering spirit, reliance on self.
- Principalities are world views or value systems.
Regional Blessings and Principalities
Regions have distinct principalities that you can identify by observing what people value or how they behave. How do people drive? What is valued in families? Protection? Education? How do people steward money? Each region is also marked by blessing. Examples include hospitality towards others, faith in Christ, financial giving, provision, healing (spiritual or physical).
Try to identify the principalities and blessings in your region.