Sometimes people who come for counseling are stuck in repeating patterns of destructive behavior. They may get free for awhile but then the behavior returns. Generational sins that have been present in previous generations may be the reason.
We are not responsible for the sins of previous generations, but it is our responsibility to break destructive cycles, stand in the gap, and make positive changes for our own lives and the lives of those who come after us, i.e. future generations. We can think of it as a family time line continuum where we are standing at a point in time in our family’s history. We look back and notice those who have come before us and how they have contributed to who we are. We can also play it forward and anticipate how our lives will influence those who come after us, whether for good or for evil. This process is both an exciting opportunity and a soberingly significant responsibility.
One of the resources Dr. Irv and I use in our counseling is The Steps to Freedom in Christ by Dr. Neil T. Anderson. The Steps begin by informing clients about the need for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and then take them through seven areas of sin and bondage. Step seven is “Curses versus Blessings” and addresses the subject of generational sin.
“Scripture declares that the iniquities of one generation can be visited on the third and fourth generations, but God’s blessings will be poured out on thousands of generations of those who love and obey Him (see Exodus 20:4-6).” (Quoted from The Steps to Freedom in Christ by Dr. Neil T. Anderson.)
What an awesome privilege to be able to break the cycle of generational sin. And notice what God’s Word says about His blessings being poured out on thousands of generations of those who love and obey Him. This is an outstanding promise! This means that by loving and obeying God I am able to not only change the course of my life, but also cause blessings to come upon my children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren . . . and beyond!! Who would not want blessings rather than curses for their progeny!
There are a total of seven Steps to Freedom in Christ: 1. Counterfeit versus Real, 2. Deception versus Truth, 3. Bitterness versus Forgiveness, 4. Rebellion versus Submission, 5. Pride versus Humility, 6. Bondage versus Freedom, 7. Curses versus Blessings. The Steps to Freedom in Christ are a step by step comprehensive process to help people resolve personal and spiritual conflicts, break free from bondages, renew their mind, and experience daily victory through Jesus Christ.
Freedom in Christ is for all believers. As a child of God, it is possible to experience daily victory over sin and walk in freedom and confidence. “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1
Check out the Freedom in Christ website (www.ficm.org) and the many resources available there. Call or email Dr. Irv or Elsie at Hopewell Counseling if you would like to schedule a Freedom Appointment (612-499-3744 or hopewellcounsel@gmail.com).
May you be free indeed,
Elsie