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Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. ~Colossians 3:23-24
The other night, I was watching Brewster's Millions, a 1985 comedy film starring Richard Pryor. Brewster was a minor-league baseball player and, unknown to him, he had a recently deceased rich relative. In order to test if Brewster knew the value of money, he was given the task of disposing of $30 million in 30 days. However, Brewster was not allowed to have any assets to show for the $30 million and was not allowed to waste the money in any way. If successful, Brewster would inherit $300 million.
Many of us secretly hope for that moment when we hear news of a great inheritance left to us by someone. The idea of getting something for nothing is powerful. Whether it is an inheritance, a lottery win, or some other windfall, the lure of fast money resulting in wealth and comfort can, at times, be very bewitching.
Do not get me wrong, it would be very nice to stumble across a treasure chest. However, unrealistic hopes often prove to be counterproductive, causing us to dream of something that might happen instead of planning for something that will. Rather than waiting for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, let us be productive and focused on where we are now and where we are going.
I have great news for you...there is an inheritance you already have! It is both surprising and overwhelming. It surprises us because it is something that we overlook and it is overwhelming because it completely rearranges our lives, our purpose, and our world-view.
This inheritance is our birthright. You do not have to work for it, earn it, or apply for it. This inheritance is passed down from the Father to his children, generation after generation. In fact, the Bible calls us heirs, which means we are the recipients of God’s inheritance.
“In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will,” (Ephesians 1:11)
Before we found ourselves in Christ, we were consumed by the fears and desires of a world that was blurred and at times twisted. Yet, as our lives are sown into His, we inherit qualities that empower us to rise above conditions, giving us clarity of understanding and a strengthened spirit we had not known before. If we are honest, we would admit that:
There was a time when we were ignorant of His nature, character and love, and still Jesus prepared this great inheritance for us.
As a child in God’s family, you get to share in the family fortune; everything God has belongs to you. God has given you:
In addition to those wonderful riches, you will inherit eternal life in Heaven! How awesome is that?
You are far richer than you realize which is why the Apostle Paul could write with assurance, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). Your eternal inheritance is priceless, untainted, permanent, and secure; no one can take it from you.
There are so many days that come and go when we feel like we can’t catch a break. It seems like everyone around us is being blessed and we are in the back, trying to find some reason to rejoice. However, let me tell you, in case you did not know this already, God's not finished with you yet!
So don’t you dare give up because you are tired of waiting. God is not finished with you yet! The Lord hears your cries and your inheritance is on its way. Jesus is preparing something awesome for everything you have been through. Please continue to push forward, putting God first, and you will have it in a matter of time. It is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2: 9)
Cream and Sugar...
Say this prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today, I ask you to forgive me for living indigent instead of living like the child of the King that I am. Lord, help me remember the truth of who I am. Help me to take hold of Your precious promises and open my eyes to see what is important, which are the blessings You have given me. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
Day 24
