The Inheritance That Never Fades

In 1 Peter 1:3-7, the Apostle Peter was writing to followers of Jesus who were experiencing hardship. Peter praised God because, “In His great mercy, God has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Then Peter identifies this living hope as an “Inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade.”

Everything in this life will eventually pass away. That is why we have to continue cleaning out our refrigerators. It is the reason we pay attention to expiration dates. Everything in this world perishes, spoils, or fades. However, your inheritance in eternity does not. Your inheritance is kept in heaven for you, and given to you at the return of Jesus.

This sounds great! Peter even acknowledges that in this we must greatly rejoice. But it’s not entirely good news. In verse 6, Peter writes, “Though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.”

Grief in trials? Really, Peter? I want to greatly rejoice in my inheritance without suffering grief in any trials.

If we are honest, it’s likely this thought has crossed our minds: what good is an eternal inheritance if I have to suffer now? Forget it, I can live without this. Why not go find someone other than Jesus to worship that will make my life more comfortable, less painful, and protect me from all troubles that I may face?

During times of stress it is hard to remember that our earthly life is only a short amount of time compared with eternity. It is surely better to endure trials in this life and enjoy our inheritance for all eternity in the next life. Peter’s words suggest there is simply no scenario where you get both the life you want in this life and the inheritance you want in the next life.

What does this mean for you? It means growing spiritually in relationship with God is enormously important. It is the most important thing in your life because it results in an eternal inheritance.