Psalms 78:4 We will tell the next generation about the glorious ways of our Lord, of His strength and His deeds.
In Psalms 78 the writer states that there is a major problem: God’s ways are being hidden from the upcoming generations. The writer’s next step isn’t to panic or blame; rather, he makes a commitment before God on behalf of the people. “We will tell the next generation….”
The author didn’t petition the government or the religious leaders to make changes. He wrote this song to families – to parents – saying, “This task is ours and we will do it!” In many churches, after a new birth, the parents, grandparents, and family come before the church to dedicate the baby to the Lord. In reality, we (the family and the church) are all dedicating ourselves to raise this child in the fear, knowledge, and life-giving ways of the Lord.
Employer’s name: Jesus
Job description: Seeking honest parents, grandparents, and members of the older generation to tell the next generations about Me and My Father, our desire for relationship with them, our expectations, and our life-producing ways. Phony preacher-types need not apply. It is a bonus if you don’t know the answer to every question. A perfect life isn’t a prerequisite nor is a degree in theology, only willingness to faithfully walk in our ways before the next generations and engage them with the truth.
Are God’s truths about life being covered in darkness today? Are the next generations losing connection with God and His ways? I would say “yes” to both questions. While we can learn from mistakes of the past, how we got here is less important than what we DO now.
On behalf of parents and grandparents today, I say “We dedicate ourselves to teach, disciple, and mentor the next generation from this day forward. We WILL listen to their cares and tell them of God’s concern for them! We WILL pray with them – at a moment’s notice – about their fears, hopes, and desires! Psalms 78 was a very serious challenge written at a critical moment in Israel’s history. Today, there is again a great need for all people with parental influence, even those without children of their own, to unveil God’s truths before the next generations. Will you take up this challenge?