All of us feel an increased sense of self-worth when we can contribute something to help others, and kids are no different. Whether by words, actions or prayers, kids can make a difference in the lives of their grandparents, bringing love, happiness and blessings.

If you are like many of today’s Christian parents, you live your life helping others. Serving your spouse, children, friends and parents is all a normal part of your everyday life. Living the Gospel is what Christians are called to do and many respond by helping their family members.

Many Christian parents go the extra mile, serving in a volunteer capacity to help others in the community who are in need. Maybe you volunteer at your child’s school, deliver Meals on Wheels, serve at a food bank or help with special projects at your church.

And the King shall answer and shall say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. —Matthew 25:40, KJV

As you live out Christ’s words in Matthew’s Gospel, you teach your children by example about the power of one person’s actions. You may not be able to save the world on your own, but your actions can contribute to the well-being of others and make a difference in their lives.

In the same way, your children’s actions, words and prayers can bless their grandparents. Even though your kids may be small and their actions may seem insignificant, they will make a difference in the lives of their grandparents.

First and foremost, we are all called to pray for one another. Has a friend ever said to you, “I will keep you in my prayers” or “I am praying for you”? How did it make you feel? Did you feel comforted and blessed to know that you were in your friend’s prayers?

Teach your kids to pray for their grandparents each day. Let them use their own words or add their grandparents’ names into a general prayer your family prays. The prayer can be as simple as, “God, please bless grandma and grandpa today and keep them in your loving care.”

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. —Philippians 4:6, KJV

If your kids’ grandparents live nearby, encourage them to help with tasks that need to be done. Whether it’s mowing the grass, helping plant flowers, preparing a meal, taking out the trash or another task, everything your kids do is helpful to their grandparents.

Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers. —Proverbs 17:6, KJV 

Most grandparents love anything a grandchild does to help them, regardless of how well the task is performed. If your kids don’t quite get it right, grandparents can correct and instruct in ways that kids accept while still feeling that their accomplishments are important.

If the grandparents live far away, find tasks your kids can do while visiting to help their grandparents. Let the children offer to sort through a closet or storage area, dust knick-knacks, prepare a simple meal or wash the car for their grandparents.

Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth. —Psalms 71:9, KJV

Whether your children’s grandparents live nearby or far away, help them remain close by talking on the phone and writing letters. This becomes even more important as the grandparents age and are less active and involved in their community.

By words, actions and prayer, your kids can bless their grandparents now and in their old age. Making a difference in the lives of their grandparents will teach your kids the joy of giving to others.