You’ve heard it. You’ve said it. “Kids these days…” Since the beginning of time, there seems to be a sentiment from each generation that the next generation is going to drive the world out of existence. Our kids’ music, their style, their friends – we are so sure that there is no way they will ever have the capacity to lead themselves or anything well. While we can all agree there are new forces driving our kids away from the Lord and into unhealthy and destructive life patterns, we can also agree that the Bible is very clear about the sustaining of God’s people from generation to generation.

God has not forgotten His promises to us and His love and compassion for our future have never wavered. He has and will continue to raise young people who can spread the message of the person and work of Jesus Christ to the world. If we as believers find ourselves writing off young people today as some sort of hopeless generation, we are disobeying the commands of God and demonstrating our lack of faith in the Lord to carry out His promises to us. For every negative thought you have about children and students, may I implore you to stop and pray?

Each time you find yourself rolling your eyes or feeling sure there is no hope for the future, would you ask God to soften your heart toward the younger people in our lives, our community, and the world? Ask for wisdom on how to guide and shepherd. Ask for God to lay young people before you who can bless you with their stories. The more and more I’m around this next generation, the more and more sure I am that God is doing a wonderful and mighty work in and through them!

Do not be discouraged but rather rest and find joy in the promises that God will uphold and sustain us from generation to generation!