A Lost Generation?
Today’s Verse:
There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother. ~Proverbs 30:11
Sociology experts have identified five generational groups that are present in our society. There are the traditionalists, who are the people born before 1945. There are the baby boomers, which represent everyone born between the years of 1946 and 1964. There is Generation X, which represents those born between the years of 1965 and 1976. There are the millennials, which is everyone born between the years of 1977 and 1995. Last, there is Generation Z, or the Centennials, which is everyone born since 1996. Each generation has characteristics that identify their beliefs, habits, and lifestyles. This morning, we are studying one generation that has four characteristics. Each of these show one common denominator: this is a lost generation.
We see a contemptuous generation.
“There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.” The fifth commandment clearly tells us to honor our father and our mother. However, Solomon said that his son’s generation cursed their father and mother. This speaks of a disrespectful and unthankful generation. This is a generation that is rebellious. It responds to its parents with complaining and harshness. It wants to be indulged rather than to be content with the blessings it has been given. Are your father and mother honored by your life?
We see a counterfeit generation.
“There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.” This generation is described as self-righteous and lacking in a good conscience before God and man. It is a generation that justifies its wrongdoings and sins with excuses such as, “Everyone is doing it.” It is a generation that seeks acceptance from its peers over the favor of God. It embodies the spirit of the rich, young ruler by saying, “All these things have I kept: what lack I yet?” It is a generation that typifies the sins of youth. Their attitude is that they are better than everyone else, are above everyone else, and deserve more than everyone else. Are you real? Are you living in a fantasy world that you are somebody better than who you really are?
We see a conceited generation.
“There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up.” It is a proud and arrogant generation. They are incorrigible and disdain correction. They have to be in possession of the latest fads and trends, and look down despisingly on those who do not have the same possessions. They are boastful and condescending. They pride themselves in their academic achievement and their trendy possessions. They are cocky, high-minded, and have no fear of God. It is a generation that rejects the principle that “pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Pride is an abomination before God.
We see a conniving generation.
“There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.” This generation is oppressive and takes advantage of others who are gullible and vulnerable. They are pictured as devouring predators that are merciless in the stalking and consuming of prey. It is a generation that is worldly and will do whatever it takes to get ahead at other people’s expense.
So, what do we do about this generation? First, we must serve this generation by the will of God according to Acts 13:36. It is our responsibility to reach them. Second, we must teach them that they have a godly heritage (Psalm 16:6) that they are to respect and follow. It is a lost generation if we do nothing. It can be blessed if we compassionately reach them.
Have a compassionate God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: Isaiah 42-44