One of the principles we covered at last Wednesday’s study of the book of Joel highlighted the fact that perhaps the most important key to preserving God’s truth is to share it with the next (or younger) generation—those who are destined to become adults in the next few years. Moses also wrote:
Only be on your guard and diligently watch yourselves, so that you don’t forget the things your eyes have seen and so that they don’t slip from your mind as long as you live. Teach them to your children and your grandchildren (Deuteronomy 4:9).
This thought is so important that it is repeated numerous times in both the Old and New Testaments. Further, the Bible warns what can happen when we fail to do this:
That whole generation was also gathered to their ancestors. After them another generation rose up who did not know the Lord or the works He had done for Israel. The Israelites did what was evil in the Lord’s sight. They worshiped the Baals and abandoned the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of Egypt. They went after other gods from the surrounding peoples and bowed down to them. They infuriated the Lord, for they abandoned Him and worshiped Baal and the Ashtoreths (Judges 2:10-13)
In Principle # 5, page 304 in my Life Essentials Study Bible I point to how we can prevent this sort of decline in society:
Adults are to model and teach God’s will to the younger generation (Judges, Principle #5, page 304).
A number of years ago Elaine and I determined to create special moments and memories with our eight grandchildren by taking each one to Disney World and to spend four special days with each one. This coming April we will make our final trip with our youngest grandchild. We thank God for making this possible!
In light of the previous Scriptures and Principles, I also encourage you to find time to share God’s truth and wisdom as well as your love and affection with the younger generation. It is the most important investment in their lives that I can think of!