There is a vast difference between a legacy and an inheritance. An inheritance is a collection of “things” that are passed on from one generation to another. It is usually considered to be wealth or the things that can be bought with money or negotiated by “deals” between individuals or sometimes items that are “traded.”
A “legacy” is much different. It is composed of the opinions and observations of others who watch us as we make our way through life. It is a result of what we do, the things we say, and how well we serve or do not serve others and our attitudes about the material things and temporal things in life. Unfortunately, for most, it is more important to leave an inheritance for others than a legacy that inspires and challenges others. Most want to be remembered for the balance sheet of life rather than the good they do for God and others.
“For riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations,” wrote the wisest and one of the wealthiest men of history. His net worth, as estimated by wealth-managers today, exceeded one hundred-sixty billion dollars. Obviously, he knew how to “make a dollar” but was wise enough to know that money, in the end, was not the goal of life.
Now, as we look at his story, we see what he “left behind” that has meaning, and the enduring value was not his wealth, but his legacy. Year after year and century after century people look to his writings for God’s wisdom and guidance, God’s insights and promises, God’s values and the blessings that come from honoring Him. His wealth is gone. His legacy lives!
Prayer: Lord, grant us Your wisdom and the desire to leave a legacy that blesses others and leads them to Jesus. May our lives be a witness of how great You are. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Proverbs 27:24 For riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations.
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