Undoing the Past

Forget the former things: do not dwell on the past. 

See I am doing a new thing!

Isaiah 43:18-19

Are there things in your past you wish could be undone? Many of us have something that was done by another person that we would love to erase from our lives. If we could change that one act, perhaps the hurt, the scarring, the shame would vanish.

Korah and hundreds of Israel’s leaders sinned by questioning Moses and Aaron’s right to lead the nation. Their accusations were an affront to God, who had chosen Moses and Aaron. God’s wrath came against the rebellious, and they were destroyed. Some family members perished. Others lost their husbands, their fathers, and their position of respect. (Numbers 16)

Sin splatters! Sin destroys!

Yet, the sons of Korah were not among those destroyed. (Numbers 26:9-11) So what happened to that family? Did Korah’s sin plague that family for generations to come?  

During David’s reign, the Sons of Korah were used by God to pen eleven psalms. These psalms have glorified God throughout centuries. As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God (Psalm 42:1). God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere…(Psalm 84:10). These are just a few of the verses that have ministered to countless people through the ages. 

Korah’s family could have lived under the dark shadow of their ancestor’s sin, but they chose to move forward in God’s light. What about you? Are you living under the shadow of one person’s sinful act, allowing it to darken your present effectiveness in Christ? 

Though you and I can’t undo our past, we can choose not to live under its dark shadow. Instead, we can choose to move forward victoriously in the light of Jesus Christ. 

Lord, you are the God of new beginnings. Thank you that through Jesus we have new life and a new identity.   

Jan