Leave More than an Inheritance

For when he dies he shall carry nothing away;
His glory shall not descend after him.
Psalm 49:17

God encourages us to fix our eyes on the things that endure. In light of eternity, leaders cannot become consumed with the temporary.

Only a vision that outlives them, a vision connected to eternity, will fulfill a godly leader. In other words, we must build a legacy.

A huge difference exists between a legacy and an inheritance. Anyone can leave an inheritance.
An inheritance is something you leave to your family or loved ones. (It also fades.)
A legacy is something you leave in your family and loved ones.

Consider these differences:

Inheritance

1. Something you give to others
2. Temporarily brings them happiness
3. Eventually fades as it is spent
4. Your activity may or may not pay off

Legacy

1. Something you place in others
2. Permanently transforms them
3. Lives on long after you die
4. Your activity becomes achievement

The Maxwell Leadership Bible