So that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
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Hebrews 6:12
How do the words “squandered inheritance” strike you? It is not new news that 70% of high-net-worth families lose their fortune within the second generation. Everyone, from titled royalty to barons of business, has watched their hard work and sacrifice wasted by heirs that simply could not handle the magnitude of their gift.
On a spiritual level, if you are a dedicated follower of Christ, you have an inheritance that is staggering. Christ’s sacrificial death gave you the keys to freedom from enslaving sin and power over every scheme of evil. Yet God’s rich children face a dilemma similar to great wealth inheritors on Earth; what to do with such an extravagant bequest?
There is no need to be overwhelmed. Your gift came with a lineage of people to show you how to put your resources to good use. Is there a particular Bible character or maybe a faithful person you happen to know who inspires you? You can learn from their life and actions and imitate them in your own way. Remember, an imitation is a form of honor in both the world and God’s kingdom. You can do difficult and holy things, but you do not have to re-invent the wheel in the process! Look and learn from those that have served God well in the past. The apostle Paul said, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).
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