Devotionals for the Heart: Legacy

Living for Legacy
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“O our God, we thank you and praise your glorious name! 

But who am I, and who are my people, 

that we could give anything to you? 

Everything we have has come from you, 

and we give you only what you first gave us!”

–1 Chronicles 28:13-14 (NLT)

August is my birthday month!

I have been thinking about legacy and the importance of passing on lessons and leaving a life of daily impact.

I am not sure if it’s a 50’s mindset but when I read the words of King David, I become very thoughtful and reflective. David knew his days were coming to a close. He understood that leaving a legacy was more for the sake of ensuring God’s name and God’s interests were carried into the future.

In reading 1 Chronicles 28, we learn of David’s outlining to Solomon the floor plans for building the temple with specifications on its measurements, materials and mandate build to honor the name of the Lord. If you questioned David’s love for God, you don’t have to after reading chapter 29. He celebrates God’s faithfulness. He testifies of all God has done and how He has blessed his life and that of Israel. David acknowledges God in helping him all his life. He is not arrogant thinking he achieved wealth and position alone.

When we think about legacy, we usually equate it to money and property being left for loved ones and institutions. In the transition of power from father to son, King David gave instructions along with the passing of the dynasty. He exhorted Solomon to be careful to obey all the commands of the Lord “so that you may continue to possess this good land and leave it to your children as a permanent inheritance.” (1 Chronicles 28:8). David prayed that the people and his son would always want to obey God and that their love for God will never change. A heart after God, a desire to love and serve God was more important than land or riches. David wanted his son and his people to experience the intimacy that he had experienced with God and he emphasized that obedience was key. These were important messages he wanted Solomon to learn. As he prayed with the people, he reminds them that everything they have belongs to God.

When I turned 50, I made a decision to give more, and serve more. My time belongs to God. My possessions are His and I want to live each day in gratitude. I have many goals and dreams I want to see reached. But I want to impart this most important life lesson that I’ve learned, to you: If you choose to honor and love God with all your heart, soul and mind, you will never live a life of regret. Teach someone something you have learned. Speak a word of encouragement to someone every day. Extend a hand of comfort to someone in need and never withhold kindness when it is in your power to show it. There are people waiting on your word of encouragement. You may be the one voice and word that someone needs to push them forward. Remember, “legacy” is what you leave behind. Don’t hold tightly to what you’ve been given.

I’d like to share something I learned from my high school track and field days. Four by Four relay was my passion and I was the fourth runner. The key to winning this sport was not only speed. There were very important components to us winning as a team. If you did not pass the baton properly to the next runner, you could jeopardize your chance of winning.

We practiced the hand off of the baton over and over. You have to get the right amount of distance between your partner and securely lock that baton in your partner’s hand. Life is very similar. As we live a life with legacy in mind keep in mind the lessons we learn during the process. Don’t drop the baton. Don’t be sloppy in the way you pass on life lessons to others. They are watching you they are listening.

Stay alert as you run toward the finish line but also, be aware of the people running behind and beside you. Remember, the race is never won alone! When the fourth runner crosses the line, it is never because of their solo effort. It’s a team effort.

Life lived fully is done with others. Are you living with legacy in mind? It’s time.

Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for this day that I am alive. I know that it is only because of your mercy and grace why I am here. Help me to always remember that everything I have and achieve is because it is a gift from your hand. Teach me to love people unconditionally and live life today in a way that honors you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

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Author Bio:

Patricia Russell is a speaker, worship leader, author, certified life coach and songwriter. 

Her gifts have been shared internationally with audiences to encourage, empower and share life lessons through words and songs. She has sung on national television broadcasts and shared the stage with several respected speakers. Over her 30 years in ministry, she has been a featured artist in musical cantatas locally and the United States of America.

Patricia had the honour of leading worship at the kick-off event for the 2006 the “Just Give Me Jesus” Toronto Revival with Anne Graham Lotz who is the eldest daughter of Billy Graham, a well-known American evangelist.

Patricia serves in ministry along with her husband Rev. Wayne Russell. Together, they have served as guest hosts on a local early morning call in program called “Nite Lite Live” that formerly aired on the CTS Television Network. They have two adult children: Raquel and Benjamin.

Patricia has recorded two CD’s: “Lord I Trust You” and a live recording “Draw Me Nearer.” She is also an author. Her first book is titled Lord I Trust You: Words of Encouragement. It is meant to further encourage and share life lessons as a result of her cancer journey. She is a co-author of a #1 bestseller book titled Crushed Diamonds Still Sparkle, and she has compiled the recent #1 bestseller book titled Stronger Resilience.

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Connect with Patricia:
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Email: patrussellsings@gmail.com