Our Imperishable Inheritance

1 Peter 1:3-5 – Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (NASB)

Luke 12:13-15 – Someone in the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me." But He said to him, "Man, who appointed Me a judge or arbitrator over you?" And He said to them, "Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions." (NASB)

Have you ever received an inheritance from someone? Several institutions and family members received an inheritance from my mother-in-law after she passed on last year. I am sure that these financial windfalls have proven to be great blessings to all those concerned. I have even witnessed how some of the things that were purchased are now being used in serving God.

Not all inheritances come as blessings to either mankind or God. We have all heard of how some inherited gifts have become curses. Envy, strife, greed, and even hatred are some of the curses or thorns which sometimes accompany the fragrance and beauty of what were meant to be lovely inherited bouquets. Due to discrepancies in giving, some beneficiaries have not felt as valued as others. Well-intentioned gifts often lead to divisive ways and create lasting nightmares.

We should not get caught up going down such paths. Earthly things, such as flowers or cash, often fade away before we die. We certainly cannot take them with us. Spiritual inheritances like salvation are lasting and are promised equally for all believers in Christ. It is by seeking spiritual wealth, inspiration, and guidance that we are truly blessed. In today's verse, Peter tells us that we are "born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away".

Prayer: Loving Father, we thank You for all the gifts that You have bestowed upon us. Thank You for sending Your Son to free us from all the sins that so easily entangle us on this earth. Help us always to see our hope in You through the imperishable inheritance that we receive through faith in Christ Jesus, Your Son. Help us to live with this spiritual hope that we have in Him and to share it with others. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share this devotional on Facebook     Like PresbyCan on Facebook