I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore, choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the LORD your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of day.
Deuteronomy 30:19-20 (ESV)
Are curses real, or are they only a plot device in gothic novels? While most people acknowledge the reality of blessings in their lives and thank the Lord for them, many tend to shy away from the concept of curses. However, the Bible refers to curses in several instances. So, what exactly are they, and could we be moving in them unknowingly?
A curse is the opposite of a blessing. Hell is the curse of those who reject Christ as their Savior and, therefore, heaven. Lack is the opposite of abundance, just as liberty is the opposite of bondage. Moses instructed the Israelites that they had a choice between life and death, and he urged them to choose life. He also warned them that they would face blessings and curses and encouraged them to choose the path of blessings.
If we believe that Jesus Christ died for us personally and paid the price for our sins, we can have the assurance that we have a place in heaven. For these believers, the curse of the law of sin and death no longer applies. However, what about the Christians who live worldly and self-centered lives? Those consumed by fear, worry, and pleasure rather than having a passion for Christ? Our choices make a significant impact on our lives. God gives us free will, and He will not force us to choose a certain path. Therefore, we must make wise decisions on earth that lead to a life of freedom and abundance in Christ. This kind of life is only possible when we live in the Spirit and sow seeds of righteousness, rather than pursuing our selfish ways. It is not enough to serve God out of obligation or a sense of duty, but we must serve Him with joy and gladness in our hearts. This attitude brings blessings to our lives on earth instead of a curse.
Can you reverse a curse in your life? Yes, you can. Whatever area of your life in which you are not experiencing blessings is due to the way you are thinking. Your part is to turn back to God, change your mind and receive the light of the Lord to find a way out of darkness. If we are honest and take responsibility for the way we are thinking and the decisions that have come from it, and change it, God will intervene on our behalf and turn the tables for us. What a privilege it is to know Christ and His unconditional love for us!