Yesterday I taught the glorious benefits of God’s kindness over curses.
The second commandment says this:
You shall not make for yourself an idol, whether in the form of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, punishing children for the iniquity of parents, to the third and the fourth generation of those who reject me, but showing steadfast love to the thousandth generation of those who love me and keep my commandments. (Exodus 20:4-6)
I speculated that many people get stuck on the “sins of the fathers” part and don’t read on through the rest.
Can anyone deny that sin brings consequences beyond the one sinning? Every one of us lives with some challenges and brokenness from decisions beyond our control and generations before we were born.
But the glory of God is in the next clause; and it is seriously good news! God shows steadfast love for 1,000 generations. Do you suppose that even one person in teh past 1,000 generations of your family has loved God?
If so, you benefit from those blessings. The curse to blessing ratio here is 1:250. Those are good numbers!
everyday theology 
Amen, Steve. This is a compelling post–such a beautiful, yet different look at the power and truth of God’s grace. I think you could write/publish/sell a book expounding on these insights. I think that, for me, you have provided another avenue by which to answer the call of discipleship–I really want to share this facet of God’s love. Thank you!
Thanks for the encouraging words!