Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

Mike Farris:
Sherrie, in the book Around the World in 180 Days, you talk about two reasons to study the history and cultures of the world. We often hear that those who don’t remember the past are doomed to repeat it. How can history serve as a valuable warning for our future?

Sherrie Payne:
Yes, Mike there are two big reasons to study this, the first one being the need to learn about our past so that we can remember it. Paul admonishes the Corinthians to not to be ignorant of their past when he says, “These things happen to them as examples and are written down as warnings for us.” That sounds like something we should take to heart today.

When we look at today’s events, especially today’s problems, it doesn’t take too long in our study of history to find out this problem has occurred before in some form. And it doesn’t matter which continent you’re studying. A study of history will reveal many warnings if we would heed them. The list is long, very long. Lessons are there on taxes, life conduct, religion, work. If there’s a problem today, there’s a warning somewhere in history. The outcome is there, too.

Mike:
Sherrie, it’s always wonderful to hear the reminder to study our history so we don’t repeat those mistakes over and over again. Thanks for joining us, I’m Mike Farris.