I cannot expect to leave this world alive, unless, of course, the Lord comes first. I have an appointment to meet – an appointment with death. (Heb. 9:27) I do not know when, but I know the time is coming when I will pass over the threshold into eternity. What will I leave behind?

First, I want to leave my wife financially secure and something for my children. I also hope that I will have made a significant contribution to society, and that it can be said that this world is a little better because of me.

When I die, I hope to leave behind a record of good deeds. When Dorcas died, her friends grieved and showed the garments that she had made for the needy. She was known for her good deeds. The Bible teaches us to visit the fatherless and the widows in their affliction (Jas. 1:17), and to visit the sick and give food to the hungry and clothes to the needy (Matt. 25:35,36). When I die, I hope to leave behind a record of good deeds.

When I die I hope to leave behind a good name. Solomon says that “a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches. . . “ (Prov. 22:1) The Bible teaches us to be honest in our dealings, fair with others, live above reproach and be morally pure. Joseph was such a man. He had a good name and kept it. It was a common name, but he made it better. I hope my name will be a better name when I am through with it.

When I die I hope to leave behind a faithful family. I hope to see each one again in heaven. I cannot make decisions for them, but I hope that my influence is such that they will chose to do right. Sarah left behind a godly husband, Abraham. (Gen. 23:2). Zebedee and Salome gave the world James and John who became apostles. Lois and Eunice brought up Timothy to be faithful to the Lord. (2 Tim. 1:5)

When I die, I hope to leave behind a great radio ministry. I founded Restoration Radio Network International almost 30 years ago with a $5 investment. God has blessed this ministry far beyond anything I have ever dreamed. We have probably aired 150,000 broadcasts, having close to 41,000 baptisms reported and starting nearly 1000 congregations. When I die, I hope to leave behind an even stronger radio ministry to be carried on b others for many years to come.

When I die, I hope to leave behind a multitude of saved souls. I have been in the soul-saving business for 50 years. It has ever been my ambition to lead as many to Christ in my lifetime as possible. That has been my top priority in life. I hope to see many in heaven that I helped to lead to Christ. I hope to be greeted by my spiritual children who will say, “I am here because of you.”