What does "inherit the land" mean for believers in today's context? The Phrase in Context Psalm 37:9 — “For the evildoers will be cut off, but those who wait for the LORD will inherit the land.” Psalm 37:29 — “The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever.” What the First Listeners Heard • A literal, physical promise: Israel’s faithful were assured they would occupy the Promised Land (Genesis 12:7; Deuteronomy 4:1). • Ongoing, perpetual occupation: not a temporary stay but “forever” (Psalm 37:29). • A moral contrast: the wicked lose ground; the righteous receive ground. A Promise Still Literal and Still Future • God’s covenant with Abraham was unconditional (Genesis 15:18 – 21). • Prophets foresaw Israel’s ultimate return and security in the land under Messiah (Ezekiel 37:21-28; Isaiah 60:21). • Christ will reign on earth, and the land promises will be visibly fulfilled in His millennial kingdom (Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 20:4-6). Included in Christ, Gentile Believers Share the Inheritance • Galatians 3:29 — “And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.” • Romans 4:13 points to the promise expanding to “the world,” foreshadowing the new heavens and new earth (Revelation 21:1). What “Inherit the Land” Means for Believers Today • Future, tangible participation in Christ’s earthly kingdom: We look forward to ruling and serving with Him (Revelation 5:10). • Guaranteed eternal security: the same God who preserves literal territory preserves His people’s eternal place (John 14:2-3). • Present foretaste of rest: confident trust replaces anxiety because our true estate is secure (Hebrews 4:9; Matthew 6:31-33). • Motivated stewardship: knowing the earth is our future inheritance encourages us to care for creation now (Psalm 24:1). • Identity and mission: heirs live as ambassadors, inviting others into the coming kingdom (2 Corinthians 5:20). Living Out the Promise Today 1. Cultivate meekness and patience—those traits mark the heirs (Psalm 37:11; Matthew 5:5). 2. Stand firm against compromise, remembering that worldly gain is temporary but God’s land grant is eternal (Psalm 37:34). 3. Invest in kingdom work—time, talents, resources—because the inheritance is sure (Matthew 6:19-21). 4. Encourage one another with the hope of a real, renewed earth where righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13). |
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