Title
The Better Inheritance
Scripture
A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children...
(Proverbs 13:22)
Devotional
It is a good thing to leave a financial inheritance to our children. It is a better thing for them to inherit our legacy. We cannot leave a financial inheritance to our children until we die. However, we can leave a legacy to them while we live.
Allow me to make a distinction between a legacy and an inheritance. An inheritance is something that we leave to an heir upon our death. It can be left regardless of whether or not the inheritor merits the inheritance. A legacy, on the other hand, is the reputation we create by our character, integrity, and accomplishments. A legacy can be inherited during our lifetime by those we influence. The legacy must be diligently maintained, however; a single ungodly act can ruin it forever.
An inheritance can be easily squandered. However, because a legacy is based on character, it is not easily wasted or lost. Furthermore, we can see the fruit of the legacy we impart; it is not so with an inheritance left upon our death. A financial inheritance is good, but a legacy inheritance is better.
Text For The Day
Proverbs 13:22: A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children…
Thought For The Day
“Void of Christ, there is no inheritance or legacy of value to leave our children.” Tony Foglio, Founding Pastor of Sonrise Community Church.
Questions To Ponder
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What does it mean to be an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ Jesus (Romans 8:16-17)?
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Which is the greater to leave, an inheritance or a legacy? Consider Acts 4:12.
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Which is the greater to receive?
Morning Study Guide
Defining: Both inheritance and legacy are synonymous with regard to passing a possession on to a successor. I like to distinguish the difference as being an inheritance is “something” bequeathed of monetary value; and a legacy is that which has both “monetary and moral value,” especially a moral value of remembrance.
Referencing: “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together,” Romans 8:16-17.
Applying: Remember that you are an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ Jesus; therefore, do your best to be and leave a legacy.