The word inheritance suggests all kinds of things – money, talent, looks, disposition, land, aptitude and many more. How can we as Christians use our inheritances to serve God?
Our looks are what they are and we can do nothing at all to change them. We can’t make ourselves taller, shorter, or prettier or more handsome. Some would say makeup and plastic surgery can do the trick, but that doesn’t change the way we were born. But what a difference a smile can make, even if it’s to a passing stranger. In my area many people walk along the beach front, and it feels good when someone smiles or says hallo.
If we inherit money the opportunities are endless. The urgent business of preaching the gospel to the world does not come cheap and there are many preachers of the true gospel who need financial support. Paul tells us to contribute to the needs of the saints (Romans 12:13). God loves a cheerful giver and tells us that if we sow sparingly we will also reap sparingly (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). It is for each of us to decide how much to give.
If we inherit land, it has a monetary value and many possible uses. We can sell it, use it for church activities, grow crops, start a business or provide employment for others. Acts 5 :1-11 tells the sad tale of a couple who held back from the church part of their profits from a land sale. Ananias and Sapphira wanted to look more generous than they were, so they lied and said they were giving the whole amount. This is an example of how not to deal with an inheritance. They paid the ultimate price for this deception.
We inherit certain aptitudes from our parents. Science, technology, a sense of humour, public speaking, all of these are much needed in God’s service. Musical and artistic talents enhance church services. Imagine meeting together on a Sunday morning with no music, no flower arrangement, no sound system, and a sermon delivered in a monotone.
Paul tells us we should use our inherited aptitudes (which are really gifts from God) for the benefit of all. “We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If a man’s [or woman’s] gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. (At the time the Bible was translated into English, the word prophesy meant ‘preach’ and prophesying meant preaching). If it is serving, let him serve, if it is teaching let him teach, if it is encouraging let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do so cheerfully (Romans 12: 6-8).”
Clearly our gifts, talents and inheritances are meant to be shared.