We are going “the way of all the earth” (I Kings 2:2). Have you thought about that lately? What will you leave behind?
Will you leave a life of trust or distrust in those you love, especially your children (Eph. 6:4)? Every day parents are making an impact on their children. The consideration is—what kind of impact—good or evil? The Spirit reveals in Ephesians 6 that fathers have tremendous influence upon their children. Dad, have you provoked your child to wrath or nurtured and admonished them in the Lord (Eph. 6:4)? Many times the true influence is not realized until dad is gone. What will you leave behind in your children?
A life of gossip, backbiting, and ugly spirit can be the legacy of men and women, dads and moms. The instruction of God is to mind your own business, not “other men’s matters” (I Pet. 4:15). Moms and dads need to learn to bridle their tongue (James 1:26). James goes on to instruct that this has all to do with self discipline and faithfulness. What do your loved ones see in you? And hear from you? It’s a good question worthy of evaluation. Some seem to live to carry a tale. Children see and perceive more than is realized sometimes. Coupled with gossip is hypocrisy—acting one way to the folks you talk about while stabbing them in the back through malicious words spoken. You know this is not Christlike, and is not productive of good.
Jesus taught His disciples a life of soul winning. The wise man Solomon said this is wise (Prov. 11:30). If energy were exerted in soul winning that is exerted in some of the things listed above, then we could be an unstoppable force for good in this present age. The thrust of the Master’s closing comments was soul winning (Matt. 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16). A soul winner leaves behind Christians who bear record of the good work done—stars in the crown.
Could there be a better legacy than a life of righteousness lived that touches many lives? Joses [Barnabus] was an exhorter of good (Acts 4:36). Brother G. C. Brewer once asked the question: “Do you want to be a Barnabus, or would you rather be a buzzard?” The Lord’s church needs more Barnabuses. That may imply that there are some buzzards in the church. Judge for yourself, but it is sure you can never have too many encouragers of good. Be one who encourages both young and old alike, encouraging preachers and gospel preaching. Young men should be encouraged to preach, first! Elders need encouragement and men need to be encouraged to aspire to the eldership. Bibles teachers need encouragement and talented youth need to be directed toward teaching the Word of God. It is a great calling. Cornelius was an encourager of his house and of good works. What will you leave behind?
We’re going the way of all the earth (Joshua 23:14). Each day we’re making a life investment, what will you leave behind? This is a most worthy consideration.
-David Hill, President of Tennessee Bible College