The Next Generation
Ever hear complaining about the youth of today? Maybe you’ve done it yourself? Don’t get caught in the trap of moaning and groaning. It doesn’t fix anything and only feeds bitterness. Instead of whining about the next generation, focus on praising and praying!
“Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world”
—Philippians 2:14–15
3 Praises
Creative Storytellers—This generation can tell stories. They may not do it through long books or eye to eye conversations, but they tell stories constantly through social media with photos and video. They interact more than we realize through constant digital communication. I am thankful to God that this generation communicates so effectively and rapidly online.
Compassionate Concern—Why does this generation spend so much time on their phones? Because they care. They may not read a newspaper, but they follow newsfeeds. They may not visit libraries, but they are constant learners. They may not have money to give, but their hearts are invested in the outcast and mistreated. I am thankful to God that this generation cares so much about others.
Complex Multitaskers—Ever watch how students can carryout several conversations by text or app simultaneously? Their minds are wired to be able to complete multiple tasks simultaneously. Their giftedness in such complexity is astounding. I am thankful that God has made this generation to be quick learners and flexible adapters.
“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy”
Philippians 1:3–4
3 Prayers
Generational Gospel Witness—The younger generation has been disenchanted with Christianity because of the many hypocrites and fakes they’ve seen firsthand and through media. They’ve often associated Christianity with external claims and ritual religion rather than a real, life-transforming relationship with Jesus. I pray that God shows them Himself through the Bible and through legit believers in their own community and online.
Global Reach—Almost 2 billion people have never heard the name of Jesus. As technology expands in the next decade, this generation can leverage their skills to communicate the Gospel clearly. I am excited and praying to see what God has ahead in His use of this generation to evangelize the world.
Genuine Faith—With the Bible and sermons more accessible than ever before, I hope that radical faith is clearly evidenced in this generation. I desire to see the fruits of God’s spirit in these young children and teenagers in a rapid outpouring of God’s amazing grace. I pray that this generation becomes a biblically saturated generation, transformed and renewed by God’s amazing truth.
“praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.”
Ephesians 6:18–20
Although I’ve titled this “The Next Generation” it is not just a future reality, it is a present reality that I am thankful to God for! Let’s encourage and lift up each other to God in prayer!
Neil T. Anderson is the founder of Freedom in Christ Ministries. He began the ministry in 1989 and continues to spread the message of freedom to this day.