Preserving The Legacy, by Apostle Dr. Lovelace St. John

The three-generation curse isn’t inevitable. But escaping it requires a mindset shift that focuses on the future, not the past!

“Three-Generation Curse” in Legacy 

• The first generation builds it. 

• The second generation enjoys it. 

• The third generation loses it. 

  
  

It’s called a curse not because it’s mystical or fated, but because it reflects the recurring human  tendency to lose focus, discipline, and purpose across successive generations. 

The First Generation – The Builders 

This is the founding generation, people who often start with little but have: 

• Vision and sacrifice. 

• Strong values and faith. 

• A relentless work ethic. 

• Deep dependence on God and gratitude for small victories. 

• They understand cost, struggle, and stewardship. Their passion and perseverance build the  foundation, whether it’s a family business, ministry, or personal legacy. 

  
  

Biblical parallel: Abraham, he trusted God, obeyed His call, and laid the foundation for future  generations (Genesis 12). 

The Second Generation – The Inheritors 

The second generation inherits what others built. They often: 

• Appreciate the blessing but may not fully understand the price. 

• Maintain rather than multiply. 

• Enjoy stability, but may lose some of the hunger and drive. 

• If not spiritually and practically prepared, this generation can begin to drift, focusing more on comfort  than commitment.

  
  

Biblical parallel: Isaac, inherited Abraham’s blessing but spent more time maintaining wells than  digging new ones (Genesis 26:18). 

The Third Generation – The Squanderers 

By the third generation, the founding passion and vision often fade. This generation: 

• Grows up in abundance but lacks appreciation. 

• Takes prosperity for granted. 

• May abandon core values and discipline. 

• Often mismanages, divides, or destroys the legacy left for them. 

  
  

This is why the “three-generation curse” exists, because without intentional discipleship, vision  transfer, and accountability, legacy can dissolve in just three generations. 

Biblical parallel: Jacob’s sons, though blessed with inheritance, they fought among themselves and  nearly destroyed the unity God intended for their family (Genesis 37). 

While the term “three-generation curse” is cultural, it echoes biblical principles of generational  stewardship. God warns that the consequences of disobedience can affect “the third and fourth generation,” (Exodus 20:5). Not as punishment, but as a natural outcome of patterns and choices that are not  corrected. 

However, the same Scripture declares that God shows mercy to a thousand generations of those who love Him (Deuteronomy 7:9). 

That means, through obedience, wisdom, and faithful succession, the cycle can be redeemed and reversed. 

To prevent the three-generation curse in legacy, three things are essential: 

1. Preserve the Vision: Each generation must clearly understand why the legacy exists and what values it stands on. 

2. Prepare the Next Generation: Teach them stewardship, sacrifice, and service, not just success. 

3. Pass on Faith and Character: Wealth and success without wisdom and godly character are unstable  foundations. 

Psalm 145:4: “One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.” 

Legacy is about the long game, about building something that endures beyond the day-to-day. It’s  about leaving behind a legacy rooted in authenticity, impact, and service to others. 

Quote  

“Blessed are those who plant trees under whose shade they may never sit.” 

All of us here today have the unique opportunity to shape the future, not only through our actions but through the lives we touch along the way. It’s not just about what we achieve; it’s about how we  empower those around us to achieve even more. 

We believed legacy meant protecting the past. But it turns out, true legacy is about preparing the next generation to create something new. Legacy is not just about preservation; it's about focusing on the future. This is how we prevent stagnation, and decline. 

Today we are reflecting on the power of legacy, the impact of those who came before us Mother Hazel Williams, Eileen Crawford, Eugenia Sergeant, Catherine Campbell, and Audrey Hall, and the responsibility we carry to shape the future.  

Throughout history, courageous legacy builders have paved the way for progress, not just through  their words, but through their dedication of faith, commitment and hard work. 

Today may their work remind us that legacy is not only about remembrance; it is about action, resilience, adaptability, sticking to it, sacrifices, community, and love. 

Remember their sacrifices were not made for recognition but for survival, and a better future for those  who were coming after them. That work is not finished, it continues in the efforts of this organization,  and these individuals who have dedicated themselves to move it forward in their generation and  preserve it for the next. 

So, Legacy is about more than looking back, it’s about what we build today to shape tomorrow. It’s  about standing in the gap for those who need support, using our voices and resources to create  pathways of opportunity, and ensuring that the next generation inherits a world where faith,  compassion, and dignity are not aspirations, but realities. 

As we move forward, let’s consider the legacy we are crafting. Each of us has the ability to leave a  lasting imprint through our actions, our advocacy, and our willingness to serve. Together, we will  continue the work of those who came before us, forging a future where every community thrives. Because legacy is more than Wealth; it is about Purpose, Values, and Empowering the Next  Generation. 

We need your passion; it is the fuel needed to serve others. Keep showing up. The future belongs to the brave; the ones willing to speak about it and build it.