Reading your own Obituary: The Story of Alfred Nobel

(I picked up this story from John C Maxwell’s Developing the Leader Within You and did a little further research)

Most of us think of the Nobel Peace Prize when we hear the name I just mentioned. What some of you may not know is that much of Alfred Nobel’s life had nothing to do with peace. Alfred Nobel actually invented dynamite and other explosives—many of which were used in highly destructive weapons. He made a fortune from his work.

Nobel was forced to re-think his life when he read his own obituary. Apparently his brother died, but a newspaper writer mistakenly believed that Alfred himself had passed away. The obituary stated, “The merchant of death is dead . . . Dr. Alfred Nobel, who became rich by finding ways to kill more people faster than ever before, died yesterday.” Nobel was disturbed by this assessment and decided to leave a better legacy. When he died, he signed over most of his estate to the establishment of the Nobel Peace Prize.

What if we all had an opportunity to read our own obituary? I think it would help us to honestly evaluate our lives.

So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.
Ephesians 5:14-16

The Bible encourages us to think carefully about the life we are living. God does not want us to waste opportunities and ultimately waste our lives. As 2007 begins, I challenge you to honestly evaluate your life. See if there are any changes God would have you to make.