A Rich Inheritance

That’s why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus, I couldn’t stop thanking God for you—every time I prayed, I’d think of you and give thanks. But I do more than thank. I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength! Ephesians 1:18

A few weeks ago a precious woman and friend of mine passed away. She had been an active participant in the Grief Share group and had shown such love and compassion to all the attendees. Her zest for life was contagious and her faith, rock solid. As I thought of her l began to think about the inheritance and the legacy that she left behind to her children and it lead to thoughts of our inheritance as children of God.

In one of my bible studies the author wrote, “Jesus died and left us a rich inheritance of grace to be invested in facing the troubles of the here and now. It is great power that is ours in the moments when we are so weak.” (Dr. Paul Tripp)

I’ve seen many families faced with decisions to make about worldly inheritances. Often relationships are strained as the earthly possessions are distributed and wills are read. But what a refreshing and encouraging truth it is that our inheritance in Christ is one filled with grace.

We have an inheritance of grace to use now to benefit our lives and the lives of others. I like how the author said that it is to be used to invest in facing the troubles here and now. That means that God has provided everything we need, right now, as children of God.

We aren’t left out of the will. On the contrary, we have been well provided for with the intention of using that inheritance for God’s good and perfect will. It’s an inheritance that will never run out.

Thank you Lord for providing such a rich inheritance of grace. The most loving and generous gift we could ever imagine or hope for. Help us to lavish it on others in the same way You have so freely lavished it on us. In Jesus’ name, amen.