Passing Faith to the Next Generation: Why It Matters and How to Do It
In Psalm 145, we see David's heart for young people and his concern that the next generation might forget God's goodness. As David watched Israel transition from a nomadic people to an established kingdom, he worried that comfort would lead to complacency and ultimately to forgetting the God who had blessed them.
Why Do We Forget God When Life Gets Comfortable?
David was concerned that as Israel became more established and comfortable, they would forget who God was and what He had done for them. This same pattern plays out in Isaiah 5, where the prophet describes people who have everything they need—mansions, wine, comforts—but have forgotten the One who gave it all to them.
Looking at America today, we must ask ourselves: Have we forgotten? Despite not having the same specific promises as Israel, we live in prosperity that much of the world would envy. Even those considered "poor" among us are still in the top 10% globally.
What Makes David a Man After God's Own Heart?
David is often described as "a man after God's own heart," and one key aspect of his character was how much he loved his children. We see this reflected in Solomon's writings in Proverbs, which often echo the wisdom David shared in the Psalms. David's love for his children drove him to ensure they wouldn't forget God.
As parents, we understand this love. We sacrifice for our children constantly—choosing movies they want to watch, planning vacations around their interests, and giving up personal desires for their benefit. This sacrificial love reflects God's heart.
Why Should the Whole Church Care About the Next Generation?
At Hope Summit, we're a family. Just as it "takes a village to raise children," raising children in faith isn't meant to be done in isolation. We need to recognize that all the children in our church are "our kids"—united by the blood of Christ rather than biological connection.
If we want to be known as a church where families and children are welcome, everyone needs to contribute. This doesn't mean everyone must commit to children's ministry for life, but we all need to help carry the load in some way.
Aren't I Too Old to Connect with Today's Youth?
Some might think they're too old to relate to young people, but Psalm 71:18 says: "Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come."
This scripture makes it clear that children's ministry actually requires "gray hairs." The qualification isn't being young, cool, or understanding the latest trends—it's having experienced God's goodness and being willing to share those stories.
What Challenges Does Today's Youth Face?
Today's young people face unprecedented challenges:
The age of skepticism has moved from 18 to 12 years old
Smartphones expose children to opposing worldviews much earlier
About 70% of students drop their faith when they go to college
However, there's hope: 73% of Gen Z is interested in growing spiritually. They're getting everything the world can provide and recognizing it's not enough. They want truth—they're receptive—we just need to share it.
How Can I Make a Difference in a Young Person's Life?
In Psalm 78, we're reminded not to hide God's works from the next generation but to tell them "the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power and his wonders."
Young people may not seem interested in you or God, but what they're truly interested in is knowing they're valued, loved, and worth sacrificing for. We need to push aside our fears and misconceptions.
Some think, "I need to figure out my life with Jesus before I help someone else." But as Paul said, "Imitate me as I imitate Jesus." If you're pursuing Jesus, you have something to share. And sharing your faith journey with young people provides built-in accountability that helps you stay on track.
Life Application
This week, consider these questions and challenges:
Who are the young people in your circle of influence? They might be in your neighborhood, family, or church.
What story of God's goodness in your life could you share with a young person?
How might you sacrifice some time or comfort to invest in the next generation?
If not you, then who will tell the next generation about God's mighty works?
Take a practical step this week: Volunteer to help with children's or youth ministry, even if just for a season. Or identify one young person you can intentionally invest in through regular conversation, mentoring, or simply showing up consistently in their life.
Remember, it's not about being the "cool" adult—it's about being the adult who keeps showing up. Your consistent presence and willingness to share your faith journey could be what helps a young person maintain their faith through life's challenges.