The Bible states in Proverbs 13:22 that, “A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children…”
An inheritance is often referred to as a large sum of money “gifted” to a loved one, but there are three types of inheritances fathers are responsible for. Spiritual, physical, and financial inheritances are critical to equip our children to become successful leaders in our society. If we do not provide inheritances, our children could face emotional and economic struggles in the future. In 1Timothy 5:8, it states, “But if any provide not for his own, and specifically for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” According to the Webster’s II New College Dictionary, “infidel” is defined as “one without religious beliefs”.
The most important inheritance, the spiritual inheritance, involves placing the fear of God into our children and building their foundation to fully understand the importance of serving such a loving and merciful God. Today, many children are not developing a true relationship with God because their fathers are lacking a committed relationship with God as well. Fathers, we owe it to ourselves and our children to provide them a solid spiritual inheritance.
The physical inheritance ensures our children are protected and allowed to grow and mature into adults. Fathers, we are responsible for providing a safe, secure, and loving environment. God has trusted us with precious children, and we must protect them from all dangers using physical and intellectual actions. Being a protective father will lessen the chance that molestation or tragic accidents will occur. Without providing a good physical inheritance, the financial inheritance will be worthless, and you may end up providing more economic assistance to your child over their lifetime.
The financial inheritance involves providing economic resources to our children. Fathers, we must put something aside consistently for our children to ensure they can obtain the best education and are provided a head start in life. Stocks and real estate are common forms of investing, and another way to provide a financial inheritance is to start and own a business. There are many options available, and the sooner we begin saving for our children’s future, the larger it will grow.
We must provide our children with spiritual, physical, and financial inheritances to fulfill our purpose and be considered great fathers. By placing our children ahead of us, we will make the best decisions and provide the inheritances they rightly deserve. It is not too late to correct the past. If you have not been an active father providing an inheritance for your children, it can start today!