What Is Inherited By God’s People?

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:5)

Today’s big question: what is inherited by God’s people?

Yesterday’s devotional explained how being meek is contrary to our natural tendencies. We need to exercise self-control, even in the midst of persecution. Jesus exemplified this behavior for us as He endured beatings and Crucifixion, and we are to imitate Him.

The Lord served as the perfect example of meekness, and He taught that the meek shall inherit the earth. When I think about the Lord’s statement that the meek shall inherit the earth, it reminds me that no matter how you view the end times, there is one unifying fact for all Christians: Jesus is the Victor.

Revelation 18–19 describes the overthrow of “Babylon the great” (Revelation 18:2). All of its commerce, art, entertainment, lusts, power, and wealth is destroyed and left in utter ruin, and the people of earth weep, wail, and mourn over this devastation. But this chapter shows just the opposite reaction in heaven—there are shouts of praise and songs of joy because of the victory of Jesus Christ. Nothing in this world will be able to stand under the judgment of Jesus. He will have the ultimate victory, which has already been won by His completed work on the Cross. Jesus is King.

For if by the one man’s offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17)

In the context of this passage, Paul repeatedly contrasted the offense of Adam with the righteousness of Christ. Several New Testament epistles contain wonderful statements about how in Jesus Christ we “will reign in life” because of what He has done for us. In Jesus, we are victors over this world. In Him, we are heirs of the blessings the Father gives. In Christ, we are adopted into the royal family of the King of kings and the Lord of lords. But, if we remain in Adam, we remain in death and judgment.

Reigning in kingship and victory is the opposite of remaining in death and judgment. So many people think that they have it all when they receive man’s praise, power, and fame, but as long as they remain in Adam, they will never know the riches of a truly unlimited inheritance. Those who forsake their place in Adam by repenting of their sins and trusting in the King of kings will know true riches, now and forever.

What do we inherit in Christ? Victory. Assurance. Hope. Family. Everlasting life. The glory of the throne room of heaven. Ruling and reigning. The eternal, unlimited glory of God!

Today’s big idea: true glory is in Christ alone.

What to pray: ask God to help you to exhibit a spirit of meekness.