How to Break G e n e r a t i o n a l Curses – A Biblical Guide

By Riaan Swiegelaar

Probably a Question Adele and myself get asked the most, when speaking at seminars.

Many people feel trapped in cycles of brokenness — patterns of sin, poverty, sickness, addiction, or dysfunction that seem to pass from one generation to the next. The Bible calls this a curse, and the good news is that Jesus Christ came to break every chain and set us free!!

In this blog, I’ll explore what generational curses are, what the Bible says about them, and the steps you can take to walk in freedom.

What Is a Generational Curse?

A generational curse is a pattern of consequences caused by sin that is passed down through families. Exodus 20:5 speaks of “the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generation.” This is not about God being unfair, but about the reality that sin has a ripple effect through families and communities.

Examples include:

Patterns of addiction

Repeated divorce or broken relationships

Cycles of poverty or failure

Chronic illness without medical explanation

Involvement in occult practices, including Freemasonry and visiting psychics, witchdoctors (sangomas) and fortune tellers.

The Good News — Jesus Broke the Curse !

Galatians 3:13 says, “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.” On the cross, Jesus took the full weight of every curse upon Himself. When you receive Him as Lord and Savior, you are no longer bound by the chains of your past or your family’s history.

Steps to Break a Generational Curse

1. Recognise and Repent

Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any patterns in your life or family history that are not from God. Repent not only for your own sin but also for the sins of your ancestors, standing in the gap as Nehemiah did (Nehemiah 1:6).

Prayer: Lord, I repent for my sins and the sins of my forefathers. I turn away from anything that has given the enemy a foothold in my family.

2. Renounce Every Agreement

Speak out loud that you break every agreement with sin, lies, or occult involvement. This includes rejecting witchcraft, false religion, unforgiveness, and ungodly beliefs.

Declaration: In the name of Jesus, I renounce every curse, covenant, and agreement with darkness. I choose freedom in Christ.

3. Apply the Blood of Jesus

Revelation 12:11 says we overcome “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony.” Speak the truth that you are covered by His blood, forgiven, and redeemed.

4. Replace the Lie with God’s Truth

Every curse leaves a lie behind. Replace it with the Word of God. For example:

Lie: “Our family will always struggle.”

Truth: “My God will supply all my needs” (Philippians 4:19).

5. Walk in Obedience

Breaking a curse is not a one-time event; it’s a lifestyle of walking in alignment with God’s Word. Fill your home with prayer, worship, and Scripture.

Prayer to Break a Generational Curse

 Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I thank You for the power of the cross. I repent for my sins and the sins of my ancestors. I renounce every curse, covenant, and agreement with the enemy. By the blood of Jesus, I break every generational curse over my life and my family. I declare freedom, healing, and blessing from this day forward. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and guide me in Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Encouragement

If you have prayed this prayer in faith, believe that Jesus has set you free. Now walk in that freedom daily. Remember John 8:36 — “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

If you need further prayer or guidance, we are here to stand with you. Contact Deliverance HUB today for further training, ministry and support.

In His Service,

Riaan Swiegelaar

11 Aug 2025