Session 27

How will you be remembered?

From 2 Chronicles: A 28-Day Devotional

Most of us, unless we’re famous, do not anticipate widespread coverage of our deaths. But, what if unexpectedly, your death drew national attention? What would you like people to say about you? That you loved Jesus, were a person of integrity, selfless, and cared about people? Would the headlines reflect how you want to be remembered?

Imagine if when you died no one cared. That’s what happened in Judah when King Jehoram died. He had ignored the good examples of his father and grandfather, who were remembered for being devoted to God and doing good in His sight. Instead, Jehoram did evil in the eyes of the Lord. Jehoram began his reign by murdering his brothers and many of the leaders of Israel. Unlike the Godly leadership of his father and grandfather, Jehoram led the people of Judah astray. He abandoned God and prostituted his followers in the worshipping of idols.

Elijah the prophet wrote to Jehoram to warn him of the consequences of his evil actions,

“So now the Lord is about to strike your people, your sons, your wives and everything

that is yours, with a heavy blow. (2 Chronicles 21:14). Jehoram ignored the warning, and Elijah’s predictions were fulfilled. “He (Jehoram) passed away, to no one’s regret, and was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.” (2 Chronicles 21:20)

It’s too late for Jehoram to affect how he is remembered, but it is not too late for us. In the end, what will matter most is not how much attention we receive at our deaths, but how we lived our lives.

Former President Jimmy Carter noted, “We should live our lives as though Christ were coming this afternoon.” If you are reading this, you still have time to live a life that matters; a life committed to following Jesus and setting a Christ-like example for others to follow.

Reflect:

• What might people say about you if they were to sum up your life? Does the description show the life of someone who follows Jesus?
• What is one way you want people to describe you? What step can you take today to become more like that description?