Beech Tree News Network

Every time this newspaper is published, we read of those who have died (Ecc. 9:5; Jas. 4:14). Some die in their old age, and some in their youth. Some die from accidents, murders, disease, suicide, and many other things. Truly, our life on this earth is brief at its longest (Ps. 90:10)! James said our life is, “a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away” (Jas. 4:14).

    With this in mind, have you considered what you will leave behind at your death? Perhaps some have life insurance policies, and similar things to provide financial stability for their survivors. Some may leave behind property or certain heirlooms. Of course, we all leave behind memories. However, is “stuff” the true measure of a man? No (Lk. 12:15)! What is the true measure of a man? What does the Bible say you will leave behind when you die?

    First, your influence, good or bad, will be felt by those you leave behind. Concerning the death of the saints, Christ says, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them” (Rev. 14:13). If we are unsure as to whether or not our influence is felt after our death, tell me how many newborns are named “Jezebel” or “Judas” today? How many newborns are named, “Paul,” “Hannah,” “James,” or “Sarah”? Why do people still shudder at the names of Adolph Hitler or Mussolini or Bin Laden? Yes, our influence is felt after death. Therefore, while we live, let us make sure our influence is godly (Matt. 5:16). It is felt by others long after we are gone!

    We will also leave behind our intentions. The obituaries are filled with people who planned on a “tomorrow” that never came. Once this earth-life is over, there is no coming back (Ecc. 12:7)! Therefore, we need to get our priorities in order while we live! Decisions left undone at death will remain undone! If you intend to be saved, then act while you can (II Cor. 6:2). Once your life is over, there is no returning (Heb. 9:27). If we do not take advantage of this day, we may not get another chance (Prov. 27:1). If you die in your sins, you will have wasted your life.

    Finally, we will leave our friends and enemies behind. Who are our friends and enemies? James said, “whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (Jas. 4:4). When we die, will we enter the bosom of Abraham and the safety of your Father (Lk. 16:19-31)? If we love Christ, are we busy doing His will right now (Jn. 14:15)? What are we doing? David requested, “Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Ps. 90:12). Are we conscious of the days we have left?

    Thus, the question we need to ask before we leave everything behind is, “Are you a friend of God, or a friend of Satan?” You will be one or the other (Matt. 12:30). Remember friendship with God depends upon whether or not you are a Christian right now (Mk. 16:16; Acts 22:16). The question we asked at the beginning of this article must be answered by all: “When your life comes to an end, what will you leave behind?”
-- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167