Does the Bible Say to Leave Your Children an Inheritance?
The question of whether the Bible advocates for leaving children an inheritance is a topic that has intrigued many believers and non-believers alike. It is a matter of interpretation and personal beliefs, as the Bible offers various perspectives on wealth, inheritance, and the role of parents in providing for their offspring. In this article, we will explore the scriptural teachings and analyze whether the Bible truly encourages parents to leave an inheritance for their children.
In the Old Testament, there are several passages that seem to suggest the importance of providing for one’s family, including children. For instance, Proverbs 13:22 states, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.” This verse implies that a good and righteous person would leave behind an inheritance for their descendants, indicating that inheritance is a desirable outcome for parents who have lived virtuously.
Another relevant passage is found in Proverbs 15:16, which reads, “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with trouble.” This verse suggests that wealth should be accompanied by a fear of the Lord, and that the pursuit of material wealth should not be the sole focus of a person’s life. While this does not explicitly state that parents should leave an inheritance, it does emphasize the importance of prioritizing spiritual values over material possessions.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ teaches about the dangers of wealth and the importance of prioritizing spiritual matters over earthly possessions. In Matthew 6:19-21, He says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This passage implies that Jesus does not endorse the accumulation of wealth for the sake of leaving an inheritance, but rather encourages believers to focus on spiritual treasures and the welfare of their souls.
However, it is important to note that the Bible does not explicitly prohibit leaving an inheritance for children. In fact, there are instances where the New Testament mentions the distribution of wealth among family members. For example, in 1 Timothy 5:8, it is written, “If anyone does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, they have denied the faith and are worse than an unbeliever.” This verse suggests that providing for one’s family is an essential aspect of faith, which could include leaving an inheritance for children.
In conclusion, while the Bible does not explicitly state that parents should leave their children an inheritance, it does emphasize the importance of providing for one’s family and prioritizing spiritual values over material wealth. Whether or not a parent decides to leave an inheritance for their children is a personal decision that should be guided by their faith, values, and circumstances. As believers, it is crucial to seek wisdom and discernment from the scriptures and prayer, ensuring that our decisions align with God’s will for our lives and the lives of our children.
