“A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children” (Prov.13: 22 KJV)
When we think of inheritance, we think of property or wealth (physical assets) being passed on to the next and succeeding generations. It must be satisfying for parents when they are able to divide assets among their children and watch them start out in life with something they can build on. However good that may be, physical assets are not the only inheritance children receive from their parents. In fact, the values they enforce are much more important and can lead to greater benefits than physical assets.
Recently, my siblings and I spent some time together reminiscing about our childhood. Coming from a large family, our rural working-class parents made us understand the value of education in providing better opportunities for children so they can do better than their parents. Regular school attendance and completing assignments were what they ensured while teachers did the rest. But our parents also emphasised reverence for God, respect for elders, contentment with whatever was provided and learning to share. These were non-negotiable.
Jacob was about to die. He called all his sons around him and said, “Gather together, that I may tell you what shall befall you in the last days.” He was about to pronounce over each one what they would inherit, not of goods or money though that may have also been included; but more importantly how each one of them would progress. (Genesis 49: 1-28). They would inherit the blessings, each one according to his own blessing – (v. 28).
What are you leaving as an inheritance for your children and their children? How can this legacy bring glory to God?
Prayer:
Lord, help me that whatever little I may have of earthly goods, I will abound in grace and mercy and in Your Word and so leave a fitting inheritance for my family, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Genesis 49; Psalm 127: 3-5
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 37:10-20; Luke 5:17-32; Numbers 16:36-50; Numbers 17; Numbers 18
