When we hear the word “legacy,” we often think about material things—wealth, property, or heirlooms passed down through generations. But what if your greatest legacy isn’t something you leave to someone, but something you leave in them? A godly legacy is about the faith, love, and wisdom you impart to those around you—one that echoes in their hearts and shapes their lives long after you’re gone.

Legacy is More Than Things

The Bible teaches us that legacy is not about worldly riches, but about a spiritual inheritance. Proverbs 13:22 (ESV) says, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” The most valuable inheritance we can pass down is not money or possessions, but the legacy of faith.

A godly legacy is built through the lives we touch—by our actions, words, and most importantly, our example. It’s about passing down a love for God, a commitment to His Word, and the values that reflect His character. Unlike material things that fade, this spiritual legacy can impact generations.

My Personal Legacy Story

I have been blessed to come from a family of strong, faith-filled women. My grandmother and mother modeled what it means to live a life rooted in Christ. They didn’t have much in terms of wealth, but what they gave me was far more precious—the foundation of faith and the example of how to live that faith daily.

I saw my mother handle life’s challenges with unshakeable trust in God. Through her, I learned resilience, deep love, and standing firm in faith when things got hard. Her greatest gift to me was showing me how to honor God in everything. Now, I strive to pass that same legacy to my children.

Her love was (and still is) as natural as breathing, and her greatest legacy was teaching me to live for Christ and love others like He loves us. Now, I find myself doing the same for my children and the women in my community.

Building Legacy Through Everyday Actions

Legacy isn’t built in a single moment—it’s made day by day through small, intentional acts. You don’t have to have all the answers or be perfect to build a godly legacy. Simply be faithful in the little things and trust that God will use them to create something lasting and beautiful.

Here are a few simple ways you can start building your legacy today:

Lead by Example
Your life is the loudest sermon you’ll ever preach. Whether it’s showing kindness to strangers, being patient with your children, or choosing forgiveness over bitterness, your actions reflect Christ’s love. People are watching—even when you don’t realize it—and how you live can inspire others to seek God.

Pray with Your Family
One of the most powerful legacies you can leave is the habit of prayer. Take time to pray with your children or loved ones, not just in times of trouble, but as a regular part of your routine. These moments of connection with God will make a lasting impact on their hearts.

Teach God’s Word
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV) encourages us: “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children.” Make faith a natural part of your conversations. Share what God is teaching you and invite others to join in your journey.

Serve Others
Legacy is also built through serving. When we serve others, we demonstrate Christ’s love. Whether you mentor younger women, volunteer at church, or offer a listening ear to a friend in need, these acts of kindness will plant seeds that grow for generations to come.

Why Legacy Matters for African-American Christian Women

For African-American women, building a legacy is about more than personal success—it’s about creating a path for future generations to grow in their faith. In a world where we’re often underrepresented in Christian media and spaces, it’s vital that we actively create the representation we want to see.

Your legacy is not just for your children; it’s for every woman who looks at you and says, “If she can do it, so can I.” Breaking generational cycles, standing up for Christ in a world that tries to silence us, and creating spiritual abundance where there once was lack—this is the legacy we pass on. Even when you don’t realize it, your journey of faith is inspiring others.

Scriptures to Anchor Your Legacy

As we think about legacy, it’s essential to root ourselves in God’s Word. Here are two scriptures to inspire us as we build a legacy that honors Him:

  • Proverbs 31:28 (ESV): “Her children rise up and call her blessed.” This verse speaks to the honor that comes when a mother—whether biological or spiritual—leaves a legacy of love and wisdom. The way you live today will echo in the voices of the next generation.
  • Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): “And these words… shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…” Our legacy is built in the everyday moments. Make it a habit to talk about God’s goodness with those around you, whether at the dinner table or during a walk.

Start Building Your Legacy Today

Your legacy doesn’t start someday in the future—it starts right now. Whether you’re praying with your children, serving others, or leading by example in your community, every action you take is part of the story you’re writing for future generations.

I encourage you to take the first step today. Build a legacy that reflects your faith, love, and trust in God. And remember, what you do today will echo for generations to come.

Join the Conversation
How are you building a legacy of faith in your family or community? Share your thoughts in the comments here , or on the Faithful Femme Noir facebook page, where we can encourage each other in building legacies that truly matter.