Generational Sins

Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years. But Jehoram followed the example of the kings of Israel and was as wicked as King Ahab, for he had married one of Ahab’s daughters. So Jehoram did what was evil in the Lord’s sight. [2 Chronicles 21.5-6]

Once again, it strikes me as noteworthy that Jehoram's wickedness was tied to his marriage to one of Ahab's daughters.

Generational sins are real. However, while I do not believe we should get all silly with it, I do believe we should recognize the sins of our fathers and take precautionary steps to avoid those same sins which may have a foothold in our lives whether we are aware of it or not.

Likewise, we would all do well to consider the backgrounds of those we love and marry! Hey, according to the story above, it could have changed the outcome of Jehoram's life! In Jehoram's case though, it could very possibly have been an arranged marriage between him and Ahab's daughter. If this was indeed the case, it could easily be argued that Jehoram probably had a propensity for the same sins as Ahab (and marrying Ahab's daughter was a way to more fully embrace that sinfulness).

There is room to consider our associations and their affect on our lives too!

The bottom line is that sin is like a disease that can easily pass from one person to another. If sin is not dealt with (repented of), then it remains unchecked and, in some cases, gains strength and momentum.

Father, help me to constantly be aware of any generational transmission of sinfulness in my own life. Help me to be mindful of obvious signs of potential generational sin and proactively take the corrective measures of repentance to stop it!