Jeremiah 10:23; Deuteronomy 6:1-9; Ephesians 6:1-4; [Proverbs 22:6]; Psalm 19:1-14; Proverbs 21:1-31; 16:1-9; 3:1-18; [John 1:23-43; Acts 2:41-47; 5:20] The adversary works in people’s lives like he does in culture — subtly, a little at a time. For instance he uses phrases such as “two consenting adults” with regards to sex, yet the phrase gets blurred to “two consenting people,” and because the definition of adult has been blurred, the two people could become young enough to include our children. This opens the door to complete depravity. There need to be boundaries set, based upon what God says is right. In so many instances in history, man was doing only what was right in his own eyes. Then there is a moral vacuum and no guidelines are set. We should consider that today’s 14-year-olds will be voting in the next election. These children are fed by the media (television, radio, Internet) as well as teachers, and, most importantly, parents. Another avenue of information is the church, where Godly parents should bring their children so they can hear the truth of God’s Word. Our children are of the utmost importance and issues such as the one mentioned above should not be glossed over. We have an invitation to witness God’s Word, but the time to focus on our children and teach them the truth is right now. We cannot afford to sit back and assume they will learn it for themselves. If we allow them to “get away with” error because we do not want to hurt their feelings, they will experience greater problems in the future. We must teach our children that God’s people can be blessed by doing what is right before God. In Deuteronomy, the people were charged to live the Word, then teach their children who in turn would teach theirs so it is passed from generation to generation. This principle holds true to New Testament times as well. It is the responsibility of parents to teach and train the children. There is no greater responsibility in this life. A time will come all too soon when the opportunity is gone. Our children represent the next generation of believers, of citizens in a country. God’s Word is true, God is right, and as we put it into application, we prove that to ourselves. We must be patient enough with our children to explain what is right. Their job is simply to obey. God’s Word teaches that that His ways are right and when we do them, we will be blessed. The Word of God covers everything in life. It contains keys and principles for happiness, peacefulness, fulfillment, tranquility, health and prosperity. We must continue to pass it on to future generations.
#361
Consider the Next Generation -- November 7, 2004
©2004 / Faithful Word Ministries
66:03 minutes
"Consider the Next Generation" - Rev. Steven A. Michels