Whether we believe our ancestors or not is a question which appeals to the heart. Most of us have been taught to honor and obey the customs of our predecessors. I know, as I also heard, as I was raised, that this is how our fathers did it.
But after thinking more I come to understand that age and tradition are not always the determiner of the truth. Not everything that has been passed down is necessarily in line with the will of God.
The Bible provides us with a clear guideline on this. In Jeremiah 10:23 it is written, O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to show his steps. This is a reminder to me that human knowledge, even aged and revered, is limited.
Our ancestors were human too. They could make mistakes. I am not, therefore, to depend on what they thought without investigating whether it is consistent with the word of God.
We also find a warning in Matthew 15:3, where Jesus said, Why do ye also break the commandment of God by thy tradition? This touches me deeply. It reveals that even traditions, long-lived as they may be, may sometimes draw us out of God.
I believe, this is no laughing matter. By following something because my ancestors followed it without going to the Bible and testing it, I might, without knowing, be fighting against God.
But this does not imply that I am supposed to disrespect my ancestors. In the bible, we are taught to respect our parents in Exodus 20:12. I am sure respecting them would also involve recognizing their efforts and sacrifices.
However, when it comes to spirituality and the truth my allegiance should be with God. Acts 5: 29 states, where we should be obedient to God and not men. I am bold to take the truth of God in this verse, at a time when it does not conform to that I inherited.
Finally, even though our forefathers contributed towards the way of our lives, they cannot be the last decision maker in matters touching on belief. I have also come to understand that the Word of God has to come first.
It is the sole certain guide that remains unchanged. So, I prefer to hear, to think, and, above all, to do as God teaches in the Bible, as that is the way which leads to truth and life.
Thank You So Much For Reading My Post.