Daily Living Devotional

It's more than money

The best legacy includes character, love, and faith, not merely the financial assets we leave behind.

Proverbs 13:22

Solomon was a very wealthy man. As king he had riches untold. So when we read this Proverb, it's easy to mistakenly assume that he's talking just about money.

It's true, those who have large sums of money and are wise often leave a sizeable inheritance for their children and grandchildren. On the other hand, those who are foolish with their wealth often see their riches disappear before their eyes.

But notice that the verse says a "good man", not a rich man, leaves an inheritance to his children's children. The writer is speaking of a legacy that goes far beyond money. So what is this inheritance?

Here are three things you can leave to your children and grandchildren:

A legacy of CHARACTER. How you live your life and treat others will make a lasting impression on those who know you.

A legacy of LOVE. As Christians we are called to put love over everything we do. Show your family what godly love looks like.

A legacy of FAITH. Your family can't inherit your faith, as this is a personal decision each person must make. But you can live out your faith in a way that guides your children and grandchildren to follow Christ as you have.

As you consider what you want to leave for your family, be sure to think about more than the financial inheritance you'll pass down to the generations that follow. Remember your legacy goes far beyond material things!

Respond

Prayer Challenge

Ask God to help you build a strong legacy of character, love, and faith that you can leave your loved ones.

Reflect

Questions for Thought

  1. What is something you've inherited that you value greatly?
  2. How can you be more intentional about building a legacy that goes beyond financial wealth?