MY INHERITANCE
"...surely I have a delightful inheritance."
Psalm  16:6b

      Before my encounter with Jesus, my views were dominated by worldly concepts.  Until I read the Bible my thinking was influenced to a great degree by what I had learned at school, or observed from newspapers, radio, and television.

      For instance, I believed I was entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness according to my blueprint.  It never occurred to me that God had any claim on my life.  Certainly the plans and dreams I had were strictly mine to pursue as I saw fit.

      So, you can imagine my outrage when I read in Revelations 4:11 that God created all things for His good pleasure, including me.  Indignantly, I said, "God, isn't that a rather selfish attitude:  It certainly doesn't fit in with my supposed entitlements."  At that moment I slammed the Bible shut and, filled with indignation, pondered whether I wanted to go on with God under these conditions.

      Oh, how ignorant I was back then.  What a rebellious, controlling person.  I thought I was so smart.  If I can recall correctly, it took me about a week to consider whether I wanted to continue following my blueprint, or surrender to God's plans for my life.

      I took a mental survey of how my life was progressing under my control and concluded that I wasn't doing such a terrific job, in fact, my life was in somewhat of a mess.  But to surrender, or admit I could be wrong, was so very humbling. Could I do this.  

      Finally, I made my decision.  Kneeling beside my bed, feeling a little fearful, I prayed, "Oh Lord, if I was created for Your good pleasure, then mold me into a vessel that pleases You.  Forgive me for being rebellious.   There is so much I do not understand; teach me what I need to know about You and Your ways."

      This happened in 1981, a few months after my daughter was killed, when I cried out to God for help in coping with my loss.

      I can't say it has been smooth sailing; in fact, I took back control of my life again and again.  There were many times when my circumstances became too painful, and, in desperation, I thought of bailing out.  However, in truth, I knew Jesus was my only hope.

      Every time I would get discouraged and think, what is the use in going on, I would recall that wonderful, happy day I "signed on" to follow Jesus.  I do not take commitment lightly, so I will, with God's help, 'run the race with perseverance' which Paul speaks of in Hebrew 12:1.

      The Lord has led me on quite an exciting journey.  Through many Bible study classes, retreats, and ministry trips overseas.  I have come to know that I have an inheritance not of this world; and inheritance that far surpasses anything the world has to offer.

      The Lord is, indeed, directing my path.  It is hard for me to understand why He would even bother with such a rebellious person as I have been.  That just shows what a loving Father He is.  Just like a shepherd He goes out to seek the lost lambs and brings them back into the fold.  It is an exciting concept to read in the Bible that God loves me in spite of all my
imperfections.

      Hebrews chapter 11 gives examples of past Heroes of the faith: Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, and a long list of others whose faith in God's promises never wavered.  I consider these heroes of the past to be inspiring examples.  Just reading about them gives me courage to 'hang in there' and not quit when the going gets difficult.

      I claim for myself, that which David declares in Psalm 16:5-6:

                  "Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
                        you have made my lot secure.
                  The boundary lines have fallen for me
                        in pleasant places:
                        surely I have a delightful inheritance."