Ephesians 1:11-14 In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, (12)so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. (13)In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, (14)who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

I remember driving next to a large fancy motorhome recently that had a bumper sticker on the rear bumper that says, “We’re spending our children’s inheritance.” Our “me” centered culture finds thoughts like that quite appropriate. We live in a day and age where you get what you earned, and anything I earned is mine to spend however I want, wherever I want, and whenever I want. Leaving something behind for the next generation is far from the plans of most.

Regardless of what our life looks like here on earth, we are promised and eternal inheritance that can not be lost, stolen, or spent, and there’s nothing we can do to earn it. In Christ we have obtained an inheritance that is far beyond anything we could hope for. As children of God, we are co-heirs with Christ. Everything that is His is ours as well in Him. If I am ever wondering how much God loves me, I simply need to remember that I am an heir to all He has in Christ.

Paul writes in these verses today that we have been given an inheritance that was planned according to His will for His good purpose. No one can spend it, steal it, or lose it. It is guaranteed by the power of the Holy Spirit until the day of our possession to the praise of his glory.

Thank you Lord for the hope and promise of my eternal inheritance with Christ. Having this promise helps me to get through the difficult times that come my way.