It only took one generation. Will it happen again? If we are negligent in teaching the younger generation the Word and the importance of following Christ, we will change this world - for the worse.
One of our young men in church recently shared a devotion on Judges 2:10b. This passage has always been discouraging to me.
“And there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord or the
work that He had done for Israel.”
How sad. What happened?
Moses mentored Joshua, preparing him to lead the Israelites into the promised land. But what happened to Joshua's generation? The Word tells us that this group of people served the Lord. They witnessed all the great works the Lord did for Israel. (Judges 2:7)
So, why did the very next generation quickly turn to sin? Were the elders too busy developing their new land to share the miracles they witnessed, and the amazing love God lavished on His chosen people? Did they assume their children and those around them would “catch” their love for God by just watching them? Heaven forbid, did they want the younger generation to choose their own religion, not pressuring them to serve the one and only God?
Whatever the case, the results were life-changing. I encourage you to read Judges 2. The sin of the people is shocking. The anger of the Lord is understood. Abandoning their one and only God is frightening.
Why so frightening? Because this could be us. It might be us. Take a look at the three possible reasons underlined above for the absence of God in the next generation.
They were too busy. Are we overwhelmed as a couple, working toward our dreams? Are we engrossed in enjoying the vast blessings of God? Has the busyness of married life pushed away or diminished the desire to mentor? Or are we willing to take time to serve, teaching others His commandments?
They assumed. How many times have we heard someone justify not speaking for God by stating, “Words aren’t necessary. My life is enough for the world to see.” Words are necessary! How will they know if we keep silent?
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’” Romans 10:14-15
Let them choose their own religion. Are we afraid of offending someone? I fear we have all fallen victim at some time, desiring stress-free relationships rather than stepping out and sharing the gospel. Do we really believe our God is the one true God? Have we forgotten the consequences of not choosing God?
Let’s not just make time, but let’s put teaching the importance of serving God at the top of our list! Are there people in your home who don’t have a relationship with the Lord? Could you as a couple begin teaching or mentoring younger couples? We want the next generation to know our Lord. Who can you mentor? Who can you invest in?
You might just change the next generation - for the good!
Seeking the Word,
Marriage by the Word
“Strengthen me according to Your Word.”
Psalm 119:28b