I just started a brand new sermon series looking at the life of King Josiah in 2 Kings 22-23. He came to the throne of Israel when he was eight years old! I remember playing in the jungles of Africa when I was 8 but certainly not running an entire country. The text tells us that Josiah’s dad and grandfather did evil in the eyes of the Lord but Josiah lived an intentional life serving God and his people. He left an incredible legacy for his country and his family. In fact, at the end of his life, the text says, “there has never been another king before nor since like Josiah.” What an impactful legacy!
As you think of the future, what will you leave behind? In terms of inheritance, will it be stocks and bonds? Property? An impressive, investment-worthy art collection? As important as planning for the future is, there is one aspect that so many fail to recognize. Every day, you’re creating a legacy that will live well beyond your death. More than any physical riches you pass onto others, it’s your character that will linger long after your life on earth has ended. So, the question to ask yourself is this: what story will your character tell?
“Unquestionable character” is one of the greatest gifts that we can leave our heirs. And yet, in the focused pursuit of amassing financial wealth, far too many fail to develop honesty, responsibility, compassion, or love for God and their fellow man into the lives of their kids.
If you want to leave behind a legacy of strong character, it starts with you. The way you live is the best example, because character is more easily “caught” than “taught.” You can’t leave a greater gift than teaching the next generation how to live with integrity and unquestionable character.
Wouldn’t you like to know that your life will be remembered for more than money? What a legacy to have our kids reflect on our lives and say, “My Mom and Dad kept God in the center of our family life and it showed. They are the finest people I’ve ever known.”
So may you reflect and be empowered to leave a legacy of a Godly life. May you remove everything that pulls your attention away from God. May you focus on retelling the story of Jesus with you life, using words if necessary. Blessings on your journey.