“…verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity.” Psalm 39:5

This week a celebrity died. She was only 39 years old. I say ‘only\’ because, as a Boomer Baby, a thirty-something woman seems very young. This celebrity did a whole lotta livin\’ during her short time on earth, and sad to say, her legacy is already one marked by confusion and vanity.

Vanity could refer to her obsession with her looks, but King David referred to vanity in a different light in the Psalms saying, “each of us is but a breath” (Psalm 39:5b nlt). We share something in common with this celebrity – we are only a breath away from coming face to face with our Heavenly Father.

Sometimes I find it difficult to understand the death of young people. Why does one die and not another? Here we are in our forties, fifties, and sixties, plodding along through life, at times complaining about the aches and pain of old age.

David said, “Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered – how fleeting my life is” (Psalm 39:4 nlt).

Our days are numbered. I\’m sure you agree that life flies by. Our babies who crawled on the floor and watched Sesame Street now have children of their own. Keeping in mind the fragility of life on earth, live each day as if it might be your last. The Apostle Paul gave us excellent advice regarding how to live.

“So be careful how you live. Live as men who are wise and not foolish. Make the best use of your time. These are sinful days. Do not be foolish. Understand what the Lord wants you to do.” – Ephesians 5:15-17 nlt

Today I saw a profile of another young person. His death stood in sharp contrast to the celebrity\’s death. Over 2,000 people attended his funeral, and scores of young people have made the decision to follow Christ because of the impact his witness for Jesus Christ had on their lives. And he was only sixteen years old. What a legacy!

The celebrity who died led a memorable life, but how will she be remembered? What will be your legacy? Make a commitment to leave a godly legacy, one your children will pass on. Live for God\’s glory, not your own.

Prayer: Lord, help me to live a life according to Your will, guided by the Holy Spirit, a life that honors You, and brings You glory. In Jesus\’ Name I pray, Amen.

Donna Shepherd Inspirational Writer

Children's author and inspirational writer, Donna J. Shepherd, looks at everyday life and finds God's fingerprints everywhere. From bird watching to the Beatitudes, Donna's writing touches the heart with wisdom and humor while feeding the mind with daily portions of God's Word.

She is currently a columnist for The Dabbling Mum and a staff poet for The Inspiration Station. Her articles and poetry have appeared in Reminisce Extra, Just Between Us, Guideposts for Kids, Penwomanship, Sisters in the Lord, and many more. Her devotionals appear in Daily Grace for Women, Devotional Reflections to Nourish Your Soul (Honor Books), and Anytime Prayers for Everyday Moms (Warner Books).