How can Job 18:17 inspire us to leave a godly legacy today? Scripture focus “The memory of him perishes from the earth, and he has no name in the land.” – Job 18:17 Context snapshot • Bildad is describing the fate of the ungodly. • His grim portrait reminds us that a life lived apart from God erases influence and honor. • By contrast, Scripture shows that those who fear the LORD are remembered for good (Psalm 112:6; Proverbs 10:7). Contrast between the wicked and the righteous • Wicked legacy: forgotten, nameless, discarded (Job 18:17). • God-honoring legacy: remembered, celebrated, fruitful (Psalm 112:1-3; Hebrews 11:4). • The difference hinges on relationship with the LORD and obedience to His Word. Lessons on legacy from Job 18:17 • Legacy is inevitable—everyone leaves one, good or bad. • Earthly success cannot secure lasting remembrance; only righteousness rooted in Christ endures. • A godless life eventually erases itself; a godly life echoes into eternity (Revelation 14:13). Practical steps to cultivate a godly legacy 1. Live Scripture-saturated days – Meditate on and obey God’s Word (Psalm 1:2-3). 2. Model consistent integrity – Let your “yes” be yes (Matthew 5:37); walk blamelessly (Proverbs 20:7). 3. Invest in people, not just projects – Disciple family and friends (2 Timothy 2:2). 4. Speak the gospel boldly – Share the hope of Christ (Romans 1:16). 5. Serve the body of Christ faithfully – Use spiritual gifts for edification (1 Peter 4:10-11). 6. Steward resources generously – “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children” (Proverbs 13:22). 7. Finish well – Keep the faith to the end (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 10:7 – “The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.” • Psalm 102:18 – “Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the LORD.” • 2 Timothy 1:5 – the enduring faith of Lois and Eunice. • 1 Peter 1:4 – an inheritance “imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you.” Closing encouragement Let Job 18:17 serve as a sober mirror: a wasted life fades fast. By grace, choose today what will echo tomorrow—faithful obedience, loving witness, and kingdom investment that time cannot erase. |
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