DAD'S RAMBLINGS -- THE INHERITANCE

DAD'S RAMBLINGS – THE INHERITANCE

"And it came to pass after these things that Naboth the Jezreelite had a vineyard which was in Jereel, next to the palace of Ahab king of Samaria. So Ahab spoke to Naboth, saying, 'Give me your vineyard, that I may have it for a vegetable garden, because it is near, next to my house; and for it I will give you a vineyard better than it. Or, if it seems good to you, I will give you its worth in money.' But Naboth said to Ahab, 'The LORD forbid that I should give the inheritance of my fathers to you!' " (I Kings 21:1-3)

What a guy, this King Ahab. He had the whole kingdom, but he was not satisfied. He wanted more. He wanted this piece of land that was next to his house. This land had a vineyard that had been established for years and that would produce from year to year. Ahab wanted to tear out the vineyard and plant vegetables, which would only produce for one season.

This plot of land had been passed down through the generations. It was, to use Naboth's words, "the inheritance of my fathers." It was more than just a piece of land to Naboth. It was his connection to his past. It was a part of the family heritage. It had spiritual meaning. It meant nothing to Ahab, but it meant everything to Naboth. Ahab could not comprehend how this piece of land could be worth more than a better piece of land or money. He was oblivious to the deep conviction of Naboth. Naboth stood his ground against the king, and ended up being murdered for it.

So, I ask myself, what enticement of the world would be worth giving up my inheritance of faith for? The world cannot understand the depth of meaning of my faith in Christ. Ephesians 1:11 says that I have obtained an inheritance. I think I understand "what is the hope of His calling, and what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance" (Ephesians 1:19). The world would offer me something that from outward appearances would be better than my spiritual inheritance but would not last. What I have in Christ is worth more than anything the world has to offer. So why would I give up my inheritance for something else, even if it looks better?

I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold, I'd rather be His than have riches untold. I'd rather have Jesus than houses and land. I'd rather be led by His nail-pierced hand, than to be the king of a vast domain, and be held in sin's dread sway. I'd rather have Jesus that anything this world affords today.

I want the strength of character of Naboth that will not sacrifice my inheritance for something else, no matter how attractive, even if it means giving up my life.

Love, Dad