Psalm 61: verse 5 (NLT)
For you have heard my vows, O God.
You have given me an inheritance reserved for those who fear your name.
At its widest sense we may inherit a whole range of different things from our families. It might be a monetary inheritance, it might be other material things, it might not be anything of great monetary value, but it may have a significant sentimental one. We might also inherit physical characteristics; the shape of our nose, or our colouring. We might even inherit our sense of humour. We can’t inherit our faith – that is something we are given by God Himself through our personal acceptance and relationship with Jesus.
We can however have great spiritual characteristics passed on to us by the example of people who have encouraged us in our faith, and that might not necessarily be family. The letter of condolence sent to my maternal grandmother by her session clerk regarding my grandpa’s service to their church as an elder, is safely tucked into my bible, and I hope I follow his example. I certainly try to. I also often find myself quoting the teaching of two people who each ministered at the church where I worshiped for many years. They certainly made an impact for good on my own faith.
Having just yesterday reached a milestone birthday, I find myself wondering what I might pass on to others as a spiritual heritage to encourage them in their faith journey. Much more of a lasting inheritance than a spiritual one.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for the inheritance of eternal life that I have received from You through Jesus. Help me to pass on to others what I have received from You for their benefit, and for Your glory. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.