Inheritance

I used to think that “inheritance” was an odd word. To be honest, I don’t think I had fully grasped the concept. 

Based on the movies and television, it seemed that some people were left things (money, estate) as an “inheritance”.  This struck me as something of a strange idea, because I had gotten used to working for everything in life.

And don’t get me wrong – I still think it is critically important to emphasize and encourage a strong work ethic.  In fact, a majority of our problems in life, in our social, political and economic climates could largely be improved through an increased work ethic. 

But aside from the idea of being given something we didn’t have to earn, it always seemed like the idea of an inheritance would carry an emotional burden, because we don’t receive an inheritance until someone dies.

But then I got to reading in Deuteronomy 10 and hit verse 9 – “Therefore, Levi does not have a portion or inheritance with his brothers; the LORD is his inheritance, just as the LORD your God spoke to him.” 

And then again in Psalm 16:5-6, “The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You support my lot.  The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.”

Wow. What an awesome inheritance!

And one of the unique things about this inheritance is that I can celebrate it with the living God!  This is not a great inheritance because it comes after a relationship, but right in the midst of the relationship.  It is a great inheritance because it is God!

Now when I look at the definitions for ‘inheritance’, they bring a greater level of depth as I think of God as my inheritance: legacy, bestowal, provision, heritage…

God is my heritage… 

I happen to be blessed with an amazing family, and a wonderful heritage it is, but even for people of a less fortunate family background, this great God heritage is available to all who accept it. 

You can know that you are a part of God’s family – living in His legacy. Just ask Him.  You are a child of The King.  He is your inheritance, your heritage.