How can we prioritize spiritual inheritance over material wealth in our lives? The Levites’ Portion: a living illustration “ But to the tribe of Levi he gave no inheritance; the offerings made by fire to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance, as He promised them.” (Joshua 13:14) The other tribes received boundaries, fields, and cities. Levi received God Himself—access to His presence, service at His altar, and provision from His hand. Their story becomes a pattern for anyone who wants to prize spiritual inheritance over material wealth. What spiritual inheritance looks like • A relationship: “The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup” (Psalm 16:5). • A secure future: “An inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you.” (1 Peter 1:4) • Daily sufficiency: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) • Kingdom purpose: priests carried God’s presence to the nation; believers carry the gospel to the world (1 Peter 2:9). Why material wealth can’t compete • It decays—moth, rust, thieves (Matthew 6:19). • It’s uncertain—“the uncertainty of wealth” (1 Timothy 6:17). • It stays behind—“we brought nothing into the world… neither can we carry anything out” (1 Timothy 6:7). • It easily captures the heart—“where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). A Levite mind-set for modern believers 1. Identity before assets – See yourself first as God’s servant, not as an owner. Numbers 18:20 echoes Joshua 13:14: “I am your portion.” 2. Presence over possessions – Prioritize time in Word and worship; the Levites camped nearest the tabernacle (Numbers 1:50–53). 3. Service above self-advancement – Use skills and resources for kingdom good (1 Colossians 15:58). 4. Contentment in daily provision – Practice thankfulness for “food and clothing” (1 Timothy 6:8). 5. Generous stewardship – Give freely; generosity loosens wealth’s grip (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). 6. Eternal eyesight – “Set your minds on things above” (Colossians 3:1-2); look at what is unseen and eternal (2 Colossians 4:18). Practical habits to keep heaven in view • Budget with giving first, spending second. • Downsize possessions regularly; bless others with excess. • Schedule service—volunteer, disciple, mentor. • Celebrate testimonies of God’s provision to reinforce trust. • Memorize key verses (Psalm 16:5; Hebrews 13:5) and recite when tempted by material allure. • Invest in people: hospitality, encouragement, shared meals, time with children. Relationships outlast bank accounts. Promises that motivate perseverance • God Himself is our “very great reward” (Genesis 15:1). • Treasure laid up “as a good foundation for the future” (1 Timothy 6:19). • “Riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints” (Ephesians 1:18). • A crown that “does not fade away” (1 Peter 5:4). Living the legacy The Levites teach that the richest life is one rooted in God’s presence, satisfied with His daily care, and invested in His eternal kingdom. Choose His portion, and you will never come up short. |
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