Mike’s grandmother, Grace, passed away after a big argument between them, leaving him only a Bible with a note. He tossed it in his closet and never looked at it again. Years later, struggling to help his mother with her medical bills, he found the Bible and uncovered a shocking discovery inside.

“Damn…,” Mike whispered, staring at his mother’s latest medical bill on his laptop. He shut it quickly, overwhelmed by the costs. Even with insurance, they faced a huge expense, and their savings were almost gone. Once again, he thought bitterly of his grandmother, Grace.

Six years earlier, they’d had a big argument because Grace insisted he go to church one Sunday, but he’d already made plans with friends. He was 18, focused on fun, and refused. The argument escalated, and they never spoke again before Grace’s death.

In her will, Grace left everything to the church—her large house and all her money. Mike, who had been close to her, felt devastated. All she left him was a Bible and a note: “Open it when times are tough.” He couldn’t believe she would be so petty over a minor argument about church.

Years later, as he tried to find ways to fund his mother’s treatment, the Bible came to mind. He’d used his savings, started a GoFundMe, and even applied for a loan, only to be rejected. With no options left, he decided to finally open the Bible, as Grace had advised.

“Well, things are hard now. I guess I should open it and read,” he thought, retrieving it from his closet. The note from Grace fell out, and he read it again, “Open it when it’s hard.” He shook his head. “You silly, old lady. I loved you, but you were so stubborn.”

As he flipped through the Bible, he noticed something unusual. Between the pages were two $100 bills. He turned another page and found more. Page after page, he uncovered thousands of dollars hidden inside! He laid the bills on his bed and began to cry.

“Oh, Grandma! Why didn’t you tell me? I’m sorry for resenting you all these years,” he murmured, filled with memories of Grace. He recalled his childhood, going to church with her, even joining the choir once. As he grew older, he’d lost interest, and Grace’s insistence had felt suffocating. Now, though, those memories warmed his heart.

Reflecting on their argument, he regretted the years he’d held a grudge. Grace had been trying to teach him something, and finally, he understood. Laughing through his tears, he whispered, “You silly old woman.”

The money was enough to cover his mother’s treatment, and he excitedly told her the story. His mother laughed, saying, “That’s just like Grace! She was wise in her own quirky way. I’m sorry you have to spend it on me. Maybe we can sell something instead.”

“No, Mom. This money is for you. Grandma wanted me to open it when things got hard, and it’s meant for you,” Mike said, holding her hand.

Once his mother recovered, they began going to church together. Mike knew he would never be as devout as Grace, but he wanted to honor her memory. Occasionally, he’d ask her to say hello to whatever higher power was out there.

Lessons We Can Learn from This Story

1. Inheritance isn’t a guarantee: Mike knew he wasn’t entitled to Grace’s money, but his resentment grew due to his hardships. Thankfully, he found out she had left him a gift he didn’t expect.
2. Faith is a personal journey: Religion is a personal choice, and while you can encourage someone, you can’t force it. Grace’s approach changed, and Mike eventually found his own path.

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