Learning history
Psalm 102:18 (ESV)
"This will be written for the generation to come, that a people yet to be created may praise the Lord."
I recently watched a documentary on the life of George Washington, the 1st President of the United States. Many people know his name, and some could even tell you a story or two from his life, but very few could go into detail on what made him such a great leader. George Washington was absolutely instrumental in shaping the governance of America. He was so highly respected and honored by everyone that he could have easily acting like a king.
The founding fathers of America wanted the new American experiment to be a free republic that was by the people and for the people, but at the same time the only leadership examples they had were from the monarchy of Britain. When Washington was voted in as president in 1789 he received all 69 electoral votes. He was so popular among the people that no one even ran against him in 1789 and 1792.
Why does this matter?
In the formational years of this great nation, George Washington could have upended the American experiment, proclaimed himself a king, and established a throne that would be passed down the Washington family line. All that would have done was create another battle down the road and the American experiment would have ended before it started.
However, Washington remained humble. He served at the pleasure of the people and for the greater good of the country. He refused to be called "Your Higness" or "Your Majesty" and instead insisted on "Mr. President". He served only two terms as president even though he was repeatedly asked behind the scenes to run for the office and serve for the rest of his life.
Essentially, Washington's approach to the presidency laid the foundation for how we view presidents today, which includes term limits and a system of checks and balances for the office. Americans today are a people who were "yet to be created" but are now living in the benefits of Washington's great leadership.
Did you know all this?
It's important to learn history so you can understand where you came from, cherish the past, and give thanks for how the Lord orchestrated events to make your "world" possible.
Now consider how much greater it is to pass on your faith in Jesus Christ to the next generation of your family. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 provides the road map on how to do this.
Teach the Lord to your children.
Talk about the Lord when you're at home.
Wherever you go talk about the Lord.
When you sleep and when you wake up, talk about the Lord.
Write His word on your eyes, your hands, and on your doorposts.
Make Him a part of every part of you!
In other words, let your history with the Lord be known in your present day! Your circle of family, friends, and neighbors should have an intimate knowledge of what (and WHO) makes you tick.
Learning your salvation history is a great lesson to pass down to the next generation, "that a people yet to be created may praise the Lord." Over verses from Psalm 102:18-28 are the confirmation of how important it is for us to be Learning History.
Josh Huisman is the senior pastor of Crosswalk Church in Brentwood, TN. If you would like to support this website and make it possible for this page to stay active and these devotions to reach a wider audience, CLICK HERE
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