Isaiah 43:19~ “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
God gave me this verse several times over the years; through his word, christian radio, in conversations with others and in the books I was reading. It seemed like everywhere I turned this verse was starring me in the face! It wasn’t until a few days ago that He allowed me to understand just how He is going to use this verse to do some pruning, uprooting and cultivating in my family tree.
We’ve all heard the expression, “history repeats itself.” That is not only true in world history but also in our family history. Another truth is that one nation or one person can stop history from repeating itself. God has been revealing some things to me lately in my own family tree that I believe He wants to redeem. I’m just one person, but with the Lord as my Shepherd and His Holy Spirit directing my footsteps I believe I be an instrument of change in the shaping of my family tree for generations to come!
This year I’ve spent some time experiencing God as “Revealer.” Some of the things he has revealed have been joyful, some painful, but all good! Sometimes in order to move forward we must look back. In the song “Safe” by Natalie Grant are these words: ” I’m not gonna hide, I’m not gonna run away. I’ll uncover the scars and show you every mistake. Your love is mending my blisters and the bruising shame. Here with you I am safe.” In order for God to heal our blisters and bruising shame we must be honest, open and transparent with Him. It is then He will gently begin to reveal & heal us from the inside out! Pain is part of the package but God is right there applying His Word which is like a balm, a healing ointment. He desires for His children to be whole. God is in the redemption business, but it will require our cooperation!
So, as I have looked back at my own family history; God in His love and mercy has revealed and uncovered some things that He wants me to stop, so history doesn’t repeat itself in my grand children’s lives.
When I was first saved an older woman in Christ told me I could start a new legacy with my family. I didn’t have to continue in the legacy left to me by those who went before. We began a new legacy when we accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. Yet the legacy doesn’t stop there, part of building that new legacy is taking stock of the past and learning from history in order to not repeat it.
We have to live intentionally not haphazardly in order to create a new family tree. One that is holy and healthy. To leave a legacy for those coming after us. A legacy that is rooted and grounded in God’s love through Christ Jesus.
The first few steps in my journey to wholeness will be difficult ones, but courage as defined by Dictionary.com is the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery. Lord help me to be strong & courageous! I’m ready for you to do a “new” thing! I love you My Redeemer!
Click on link below to listen to a great song:
Shadow Living 