Mama Always Said: Intentional Living for Future Generations – by Barnabas Foundation

The 1994 classic film Forrest Gump tells the story of a simple man with extraordinary insight. Throughout the movie, Forrest shares several heartfelt truths, many of which begin with, “My mama said…”

In fact, Forrest quotes his mama ten times, including the most iconic line:
“My mama always said, ‘Life is like a box of chocolates.’”
Forrest’s worldview is largely shaped by the wisdom passed down from his mother. Whether profound or practical, her words became his guiding principles.

And the same is true for us.

Our identity, values, and behaviors are deeply influenced by those who raised us. Likewise, the children, grandchildren, and young people in our lives are being shaped every day by the things we say, do, and prioritize.

Impressing Truth on the Next Generation

In the Old Testament, we find a powerful call to intentional influence. Moses, a foundational leader in the faith, had led God’s people through miraculous deliverance. But as he neared the end of his life, Moses knew he would not accompany the Israelites into the Promised Land. Instead, he used his final messages to equip them for what lay ahead.

After delivering the Ten Commandments, he gave this charge:
“Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.”
(Deuteronomy 5:33, NIV)

But Moses didn’t stop there. He stressed the importance of passing on God’s commands and truth to future generations:

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up… Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”
(Deuteronomy 6:6–9, NIV)

This wasn’t just a call to parenting. It was a commission to live lives so saturated with God’s truth that it would overflow into every relationship and conversation.

Legacy Requires Intentional Living

When future generations speak your name, what will they remember? What stories will they tell?

Now is the time to speak into those memories. Passing on values and beliefs doesn’t happen by accident—it requires thoughtful intentionality.

Ask the Lord to guide your words, shape your actions, and align your heart with His—so that your life points others to Him.

Because, as Forrest Gump’s mama said,
“You have to do the best with what God gave you.”

Let your legacy be one of faith, love, and truth—impressed deeply into the hearts of those who follow after you.