October 17, 2025

Fighting Over The Inheritance

Ephesians 1:11 – “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.”

The family gathered after the funeral, somber faces quickly transforming as the reading of the will began. Within minutes, the atmosphere shifted from grief to tension. Siblings who had embraced hours earlier now glared across the room, arguing over grandmother’s china, grandfather’s watch, or who deserved the lake house. Items that had gathered dust for decades suddenly became treasures worth severing relationships over.

This scene repeats in countless families. The inheritance that should represent a loved one’s final blessing instead becomes the catalyst for lasting division. Arguments erupt not just over valuable assets but often over sentimental items of minimal financial worth. What drives this behavior? At its core lies the human tendency to grasp for significance, security, and sometimes simply to “win” against siblings or relatives.

How striking the contrast with our spiritual inheritance! Peter describes it as “imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4). This divine bequest carries three remarkable qualities—it cannot deteriorate, cannot be corrupted, and will never diminish in value. Even more remarkable is that we needn’t compete for it. God’s inheritance isn’t divided among His children but multiplied to each one.

Scripture assures us that we are “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17). This inheritance includes not only future glory but present peace, unshakable identity, and daily provision. Unlike earthly inheritances that require someone’s death before distribution, our spiritual inheritance began flowing the moment we entered God’s family.

The inheritance squabbles that fracture families reveal our grasping nature. The inheritance freely given in Christ reveals God’s generous heart.

Today’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, forgive me when I grasp for earthly treasures while overlooking the riches You’ve already provided. Help me live with open hands rather than clenched fists. Amen.

Reflection Question: What temporary possessions are you fighting for that pale in comparison to the eternal inheritance God has already secured for you?