When people think of leaving an inheritance, they often picture financial wealth, property, or valuable possessions passed down to the next generation.
While these things are certainly part of what inheritance can mean, the Bible’s view on leaving an inheritance is much broader and more profound.
The Scriptures offer valuable insights into the importance of planning for the future, caring for one’s family, and leaving a lasting legacy that goes beyond material wealth.
So, what does the Bible say about leaving an inheritance, and how can we apply these teachings to our lives today?
In this article, we’ll explore biblical principles about inheritance, the spiritual legacy we leave behind, and why it’s essential to consider both earthly and eternal inheritances when planning for the future.
The Importance of Leaving an Inheritance
The Bible speaks clearly about the importance of leaving an inheritance, especially for one’s family.
In Proverbs 13:22, we read, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.”
This verse highlights the value of planning ahead and providing for future generations.
It’s not just about the here and now; a wise person thinks about the well-being of their descendants.
In biblical times, inheritance often meant land, livestock, or other forms of wealth that were passed down through generations.
Families relied on these inheritances to provide stability, security, and a sense of belonging.
A father leaving an inheritance was not only an act of love and care but also a responsibility in the eyes of his community and faith.
While the idea of leaving a material inheritance is important, the Bible also encourages us to think about the type of inheritance we are leaving in a spiritual sense.
A good inheritance includes not just money or possessions but also values, faith, wisdom, and love.
These are the things that truly last and make an impact for generations to come.
Biblical Examples of Inheritance
Throughout the Bible, we see many examples of inheritance being passed down from one generation to the next.
One of the most well-known examples is the inheritance of land that God promised to Abraham and his descendants.
In Genesis 17:8, God says, “The whole land of Canaan, where you now reside as a foreigner, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God.”
This land inheritance wasn’t just about property—it was tied to God’s covenant and His promises to His people.
The land of Canaan became a symbol of God’s blessing and faithfulness.
When the Israelites eventually entered the Promised Land, it marked the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
This inheritance wasn’t just a piece of land; it was a sign of God’s presence and provision for His people.
Another example of inheritance in the Bible can be found in the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32.
In this parable, the younger son asks for his inheritance early, takes it, and spends it recklessly.
Eventually, he finds himself in poverty and returns to his father, seeking forgiveness.
This story highlights the dangers of misusing inheritance but also shows the grace and forgiveness of God.
The older son, who remained with his father, also had a part in the inheritance, but his attitude toward his brother’s return reveals the complexity of family relationships and inheritance.
This parable reminds us that inheritance isn’t just about wealth; it’s also about how we use what we’ve been given and the relationships we maintain with our family.
The Spiritual Inheritance We Leave Behind
While material inheritance is important, the Bible emphasizes that our spiritual inheritance is even more valuable.
The legacy of faith, character, and wisdom we pass on to the next generation will have a lasting impact far beyond any financial gift we could leave.
In Deuteronomy 6:6-7, we find an important commandment: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.
Impress them on your children.
Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
This passage encourages parents to pass on the knowledge of God and His commandments to their children.
The spiritual inheritance we leave behind includes teaching our children about God’s love, showing them how to live with integrity, and modeling a life of prayer and faith.
It’s about instilling values that will guide them throughout their lives, even when we are no longer around.
Proverbs 22:6 reminds us of the lasting power of such an inheritance: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
This idea of a spiritual inheritance extends beyond our immediate family.
As Christians, we are called to leave a legacy of faith that can impact others—whether through mentoring, sharing the gospel, or serving those in need.
The Apostle Paul often referred to his spiritual children, those he had led to Christ, as his legacy in the faith.
In 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20, he writes, “For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes?
Is it not you?
Indeed, you are our glory and joy.”
The Dangers of Misplaced Priorities
While leaving an inheritance is important, the Bible also warns against focusing too much on material wealth.
Jesus frequently spoke about the dangers of placing too much value on earthly treasures rather than heavenly ones.
In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
This teaching reminds us that while it’s wise to leave a material inheritance, we shouldn’t let the pursuit of wealth become our primary goal.
Our true treasure is found in our relationship with God and the eternal impact we can have on others.
The Bible also warns against becoming greedy or overly concerned with accumulating wealth.
In Luke 12:15, Jesus says, “Watch out!
Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
This verse challenges us to examine our hearts and ensure that we are not placing too much importance on material wealth.
As we think about leaving an inheritance, it’s crucial to keep these warnings in mind.
Money and possessions are temporary, but the spiritual and relational legacies we leave behind have eternal significance.
By focusing on what truly matters—faith, love, and generosity—we can leave an inheritance that reflects God’s values.
The Responsibility to Provide for Our Families
The Bible also emphasizes the importance of providing for one’s family, both during life and after death.
In 1 Timothy 5:8, it says, “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
This verse highlights the responsibility that Christians have to care for their families and ensure that their needs are met.
Leaving an inheritance can be part of fulfilling this responsibility.
By planning ahead and providing for future generations, we demonstrate love and care for our families.
It’s not about leaving vast amounts of wealth but ensuring that our loved ones are taken care of and have the tools they need to succeed.
The Bible also encourages good stewardship of what we have been given.
In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus tells the story of a master who entrusts his servants with different amounts of money.
The servants who invest and manage the money wisely are rewarded, while the one who buries the money in fear is reprimanded.
This parable teaches us that we are called to manage our resources responsibly and use them for good.
When we plan for an inheritance, we are practicing good stewardship of what God has entrusted to us.
It’s not about hoarding wealth but about wisely managing it so that we can provide for our families and support the work of God’s kingdom.
Giving as an Inheritance
Another important aspect of leaving an inheritance is the principle of generosity.
The Bible teaches that giving is an essential part of a life of faith.
When we give to others, we reflect the heart of God, who is the ultimate giver.
In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Paul writes, “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
This passage encourages us to give generously, whether that’s through financial support, time, or service.
When we think about leaving an inheritance, it’s important to consider how we can bless others, not just our own families but also those in need.
Giving to charitable causes, supporting ministries, and helping those who are less fortunate can be part of the legacy we leave behind.
In Acts 20:35, Paul reminds us of Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
As we think about our inheritance, we should ask ourselves how we can use our resources to bless others and reflect God’s love in a practical way.
Eternal Inheritance: What We Receive from God
Finally, it’s important to remember that the Bible speaks not only about the inheritance we leave for others but also about the inheritance we receive from God.
As Christians, we are heirs to a spiritual inheritance that is far greater than any earthly wealth.
In Ephesians 1:18, Paul prays that the believers would know “the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people.”
This glorious inheritance refers to the eternal life, joy, and peace that we receive through our relationship with Christ.
1 Peter 1:3-4 also speaks of this inheritance: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!
In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.
This inheritance is kept in heaven for you.”
As we think about leaving an inheritance for others, we must remember that our true inheritance comes from God.
It is eternal, unchanging, and far more valuable than anything this world can offer.
Final Thoughts
The Bible offers a balanced and thoughtful approach to leaving an inheritance.
It encourages us to provide for our families, manage our resources wisely, and leave a legacy of faith and love.
While material wealth is important, the spiritual inheritance we leave behind is even more valuable.
By focusing on faith, generosity, and eternal treasures, we can leave an inheritance that not only benefits our families but also reflects the heart of God.
In the end, the greatest inheritance we can leave is one that points others to Christ and the hope of eternal life.