A legacy, good or bad, is something handed down from one person to another. I hope, over time, the Lord has blessed you with the things you need in life. But what are you leaving behind? The words and thoughts you shared with friends may have been based on what was happening in your life at the time, but now you see things more clearly.
Praiseworthy deeds can be like planted seeds that spawn a root of happiness to grow in someone’s heart. If possible, you must make deeds count for the good of humanity because this will be your legacy. People will remember the deeds that you do but they may not always remember the words you speak.
On the other hand, planting seeds that cause a root of bitterness to grow in someone’s heart is unforgettable as well. People’s words can do lasting damage, and that should concern all of us. The Bible teaches us “to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires in humanity.” The Apostle Paul wrote, “See… that no one falls short of the grace of God and …no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.”
It can be humbling to know that you have left a legacy filled with roots that extend beyond yourself to make this world a better place to live. It is humbling, but you must do it because you won’t feel right toward God until you are right with those he loves. Dale E. Turner writes, “It is the highest form of self-respect to admit our errors and mistakes and make amends for them… A mistake is only an error in judgment, but to adhere to it when it is discovered shows weakness of character.”
So, as we lead a life of praiseworthy deeds, remember that God works through the frailty of humanity to clearly demonstrate his own power, love and glory. The Bible is a catalog of those who were misfits, underprepared and normally last-to-be-picked who were picked first by him who he changed, and prepared for important, assigned earthly tasks. All humanity is part of that heritage and are enjoined to willingly see God through the work of each of our hands. This is our praiseworthy legacy. So, Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Dr. Walter Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
