Pastor Wes Morris
Psalm 78:4-7 (GNT) We will tell the next generation about the Lord's power and his great deeds and the wonderful things he has done. He instructed our ancestors to teach his laws to their children, so that the next generation might learn them and in turn should tell their children. In this way they also will put their trust in God and not forget what he has done, but always obey his commandments.
√ WE ARE A DIVERSE GENERATION.
√ WE ARE A DISCONNECTED GENERATION.
Joshua 24:31 (NIV) Israel served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and the elders who outlived him and who had experienced everything the Lord had done for Israel.
Judges 2:10 (NIV) After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel.
“Throughout human history in all cultures parents and grandparents have helped their young understand life and the future. However, I anticipate that a time is coming where technology and culture changes so fast that, for the first time in human history, children will have to figure out for themselves what their values will be.”– Margaret Mead, Cultural Anthropologist
3 QUESTIONS
Hebrews 12:11 (NLT) No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.
Proverbs 29:18 (CEB) When there’s no vision, the people get out of control, but whoever obeys instruction is happy.
I. LOVE GOD PASSIONATELY.
Deuteronomy 6:4-5 (GNT) Remember this! The Lord—and the Lord alone—is our God. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.
II. TEACH TRUTH PRACTICALLY.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV) Write these commandments that I’ve given you today on your hearts. Get them inside of you and then get them inside your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning to when you fall into bed at night.
III. SHARE FAITH PERSONALLY.
Deuteronomy 6:20-25 (TLB) In the years to come when your son asks you, ‘What is the purpose of these laws which God has given us?’ you must tell him, ‘We were Pharaoh’s slaves in Egypt, and the Lord brought us out of Egypt with great power. He brought us out of Egypt so that he could give us this land he had promised to our ancestors. And he has commanded us to obey all of these laws and to reverence him so that he can preserve us alive as he has until now.
25 For it always goes well with us when we obey all the laws of the Lord our God.’
