Joe and Jessa I had a 6th grade student who started acting out. I pulled him aside after class to find out what was on his heart. AJ shared some of the things that were going on at home. His dad had moved out and he was seeing behavior that rattled his confidence. Up until this point AJ had always identified with his dad. Honestly, he was wrestling with the fear that he would grow up to be like him.

God said He visits the sin of fathers to third and fourth generations (Exodus 20:5). That was what scared AJ. However, he missed the powerful word, BUT! Verse six promised AJ that God would demonstrate mercy and steadfast love. The choice was up to him! The key was if he would HATE or LOVE God! AJ was not doomed to repeat history he was free to become like Jesus!

Your dad and I often point out how much you are like us. We definitely share some physical, intellectual, emotional and personality similarities! The expression, "The Apple Doesn't Fall From the Tree," is true.

However, Exodus 20:6 is for you too! God in His mercy and steadfast love provides you with the ability to look like Jesus! Our sin battles don't have to be your destiny! The choice is up to you!

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. But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my commands.

Chain Breaker by Zach Williams