“And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees” (Matt. 3:10).
Here is a verse for dealing with genetic tendencies in a family tree. It assures us that there is an “ax” which can cut the “root” of cancer, alcoholism, stroke, heart attack, emotional disorder or any other inherited negative family trait.
That ax, or cutting edge, is the Word of God which is “living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow…” (Heb. 4:12).
According to Scripture, God’s blessings are passed down through a family for a thousand generations (Ps. 105:8). Defective tendencies will only reach to the third and fourth generations (Ex. 20:5). In view of that ratio, we ought to inherit a lot more “good stuff” than “bad stuff.” However, it must be admitted that there are some negative family tendencies to be dealt with.
Some families have a history of cancer, some heart problems, some strokes, some insanity. Others have a marked tendency toward chemical addiction, lust, jealously, worry, or bad temper. If there is any negative trait in your family tree, this verse is for you. Verbally state it as a confession of faith:
Lord, Your Word is the cutting instrument. I lay the ax to the root of __________________________________ in my family tree (fill in the word that characterizes your family tendency). I claim freedom from the problems in my family which have been passed from one generation to the next. Thank You, Father for this deliverance. Amen!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.