The Hebrew word for behind, back, that which comes after is "Achariyth."
A preaching/music medley from fireonthealtar.com features Michael Brown speaking on the biblical concept of Achariyth. Brown suggests that God's purpose is to show us the Achariyth - the result of our actions. But the enemy wants to blind us to the real repercussions of our sin. If we were to only know the end, would we ever really walk down the dark paths of sin? If we really realized how one "minor" sin could destroy everything we work for, would we be so quick to dismiss the danger of these actions?
How many men would never look at pornography if they knew the end result? How many teenage girls would abstain from sex if they knew the struggles of teen pregnancy? How many people would not drink and drive if they understood the pain caused by car accidents? How many families would make do with less if they understood the real cost of their financial debt? How many couples would give it one last try if they realized the permanent damage caused by divorce? How many hurt people would forgive if they understood the freedom in letting go of the past? How many addicts would just say no if they realized the emptiness left after the buzz wears off? How many legalists would learn to be more merciful if they were aware the true depth of their own depravity?
By seeing the end, we can make better choices. If I could only remember how bad I feel after I sin, I would never do it again. But we get blinded to our previous experience. For some reason, we think this time will always be different. We always think that "it" will never happen to us. But what really makes us any different?
Michael Brown said, "It's the way of the flesh to appeal to the here and now." In the natural man, we don't remember the shame, the sense of less, the depression or loneliness caused by sin. That is why we must seek wisdom and real understanding of what comes after.
Proverbs 19:20-21 (King James Version) says, "Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. There are many devices in a man's heart nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand."
Oh Lord, it is Your counsel that will stand. May I know the Achariyth of my actions. Cause me to live with an eternal perspective. May I see the weight and result of my sin. Keep me from hidden sins. Purify my heart that I may see You in my days on this earth. Guide me to godly counsel. May I live with the end always in mind.
Michael Brown's message can be found at http://www.fireonthealtar.com/compilations/igy/6_'Achariyth%20-Michael%20Brown.mp3
