Ex-BMC Forum

[mysticallaura]

Bob Bedford
Psalm 47:4

The experts say that over the next decade, there will be a transfer of several billions of dollars of wealth through inheritance. All too often, those who become wealthy by inheritance don't have the requisite character to use the wealth responsibly. Since most of us did not have the luxury of being born to wealthy parents, we spend no time thinking of a future date when we will be rich.

Although God has material wealth beyond measure, it is not the primary measure of God's assets. The fruits of the Spirit -- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control -- each have a value that is uncalculatable in terms of money. (Gal. 5:22-23) What price tag would you put on mercy and forgiveness? And who could even begin to appraise the "riches of His grace"? (Eph. 1:7)

The psalmist directs our attention to "the Lord Most High" who is designated as "a great King over all the earth." (Ps. 47:2) A King in his Kingdom has ultimate control of everything. He can take whatever he pleases from anybody (He doesn't need to be formal enough to call it "taxes".) But he also has the right to distribute wealth or benefits to anybody, now or upon his death.

Even though we have the opportunity in this country to write our last will and testament, it appears only a small percentage of people actually do that. So whatever estate they may have is divided according to the laws of whatever state in which they reside. Even when wills are made, often they only specify various percentages to the heirs rather than give specific items.

The psalmist describes God as one who "chooses our inheritance for us, the glory of Jacob whom He loves". (Ps. 47:4) Someone who is wise in his bequests not only considers the resources that are available, but assesses the needs of the potential heirs. It is not uncommon to restrict the gifts in ways that prevent the heirs from harming themselves. The word 'chooses' implies that it has been thought through, tested and a decision has been made "in the best interest" of each one provided.

Inheritance means a possession. To the Israelites, it primarily related to land. Since God had created the land, He was free to give or assign it to whomever. When it was divided by Joshua, each tribe received a permanent possession which could not be transferred outside the tribe. God knows us much better than we know ourselves and having Him choose our inheritance is the best of all worlds. More than giving us "stuff" to make us lazy, He often provides land or tools with which we can work. Whatever He provides, we are certain it is motivated by His heart of love for us.