In the last weeks, I have talked about three of the riches we receive when we inherit the Kingdom of God by believing in Christ Jesus. The first one was hope. We have an expectation that God will fulfill our desires when we place our trust in Him. “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” (Hebrews 6:19 NIV) I like this analogy of our hope holding us in place so that we are not tossed into danger but is keeping us solid in rough times.
Forgiveness was the second riches I mentioned. “If you, O Lord, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with You there is forgiveness, therefore you are feared.” (Psalm 130:3-4 NIV) I think of fear as awe or honor. God tears up any evidence of our sins; He deserves our highest respect.
Joy was the next treasure. It is one of the fruits of the Spirit that become ours when we choose to follow God. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23) All are available to us as part of our inheritance. When we allow the Holy Spirit to work through us, they are within our reach.
We don’t have to wait until we reach heaven to enjoy the inheritance that is ours. God has provided many good things for us to experience while we are alive. Claiming our inheritance doesn’t mean we will never see hard times. It means we have the tools available to help us navigate the challenges. And we are never alone. The Holy Spirit is in us and should be the one at the helm, directing our position.

Are you claiming the riches that your position as an heir gives you?