Our
biggest mistakes in life are when we act without thinking. Friends tell us, “What were you thinking?” We’ve all done
things in the heat of the moment that we’re not proud of. On the other hand,
when we think and make deliberate choices, we’re creating a legacy.
Often
people define legacy is how you want to be remembered. What you leave behind for others is important. But what you
leave in people is eternal.
You
are in your current situation because someone made sacrifices. In the Bible,
Paul reminded Timothy about the sacrifices of his grandmother and then his
mother. Timothy’s faith was attributed to the faith that was passed down to him
through generations. In the same way, what you do (or don’ don’t do) today will
remind the world of the person you were. Our actions speak not only for now but
for generations to come.
This
is why it’s so important to think before we act. This is why we should consider
the consequences of our actions not only for the present but for the eternal
future to come. Every time, we break a bad habit, we’re leaving a generational
blessing. Every time we are being kind and showing favor to others, we’re
leaving a legacy of favor for our children and grandchildren to walk into.
Every time we forgive others, we’re storing up mercy for the people coming
after us.
Sometimes
we’re wrong to think that to leave a legacy is to live a perfect life. Of
course, that is always preferable. But most of us don’t fall under that
category. Sometimes, one act of making the right choice can create a life of
legacy. That is what happened to a prostitute named Rehab. She hid the Israeli
spies from their enemies. It brought favor in to her life. Did you know David
and Jesus our Lord came from the bloodline of a prostitute! What a sobering thought!
It shows how one act of your courage can leave you with a Godly legacy.
Some
of you today are battling and tempted to take the easy way out. You’re ready to
give up and throw in the towel. Nobody will ever blame you if you give up now
but consider what it could have been! You could break this curse. You could
have left your children in a better place. Your action will affect generations
to come.
One
of the most enduring legacies you can leave behind is what you do for the Lord.
Everything you see is temporal but when you lift someone up, be kind to people
and help someone in need – you’re creating an eternal legacy. Forty some years
ago, a group of Sunday school ladies from America sent me $12 every month. I
was a sponsored child in an orphanage. Today, I’m here touching millions of
lives because of their small act of kindness and generosity. Friend, what is
your legacy going to be? Are you a taker or a giver? Are you going to raise the
bar higher? I believe God wants to make you immortal through your legacy. Think
in generations to come! Live in such a way that will make it easier for those who
come after you!
“For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which
first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that
it is in you as well” (2 Timothy 1:5 NAS).
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