So, we have gone through the first two Commandments. Before we move onto the third, I think it is important to comment on the verse that follows the second Commandment. So here we go! It's heavy!
Exodus 20:5&6: "You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected- even children in the third and fourth generations of those who reject me. 6. But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my Commandments."
We have talked enough for right now, about other gods and idols. Let's talk about the next part... "I lay the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected- even children in the third and fourth generations."
I feel like this should be talked about more often than it is. FOR YES, it is 100% true that each one of us has free will and the right to choose whether or not we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. But when the sins of your father or you mother are chasing you, it can make things more difficult for you!
For some, growing up with alcoholic parents, the children may then think that it's normal and ok to drink excessively when they grow up. Children with abusive parents, then grow up- not understanding how to deal with difficult situations in a healthy way, then they end up abusing their spouse or children. And once it takes that step into the next generation, it typically turns into what is called a generational curse. And until someone puts their foot down and seeks the Lord- and does the work to end the curse, it will continue on and on to generations to come.
I have seen some pretty ugly generational curses, and on the outside looking in- it is hard to understand. Not only is it hard to understand why the person is doing what they are doing, but why they think that it is ok. But that is because we were not all raised the same way. We don't all think the same way!
It is also true for those who love the Lord with unfailing love! For those children grow up seeing their parents and grandparents love and devotion! To continue in their footsteps is just as easy as following in the footsteps as a sinner.
But what I find astounding is this- Deuteronomy 24:16 says this, "Parents must not be put to death for sins of their children, nor children for the sins of their parents. Those deserving to die must be put to death for their own crimes."
So, even though the struggle will be harder. Let me tell you- there is redemption! If you put in the work and seek the Lord! And really let the Lord work on you and transform you! Not only are you breaking that chain!!!! But you are giving your children an amazing gift!! For those sins will not be passed down to them!! For you will have placed those children on the other side! The side that gets lavished with God's love!!!
Change your thinking!! Start telling yourself, "It's not about me- it's about them!! I say YES to God!!!" Let me tell you!! This will change your life! But not only your life- but everyone that shares life with you!
SAY YES TO GOD!!!
Until next time:
Number 6:24-26
24. May the Lord bless you and protect you!
25. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you!
26. May the Lord show you His favor and give you His peace!
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