Day 11 – A Generational Gap

(Judges 2:10-15)

In recent times there have been conversations about the peculiarities of different generations. The misconceptions and lack of understanding of the inter-generational differences are apparent in such conversions.

It is common for the baby boomer and generation X to misunderstand the millennials and Gen Zs and vice versa. Each generation is shaped by its history and struggles but an understanding and appreciation of generational differences and contributions makes for a healthier society.

The importance of passing on the word of God

In today’s bible reading, after the death of Joshua and his entire generation, a new generation emerged that did not know the Lord, nor the works which He had done for Israel. The history and values of the community have not been handed down to this new generation.

When we fail to pass on our heritage, values, and the word of God, His statutes, and testimonies, the result we will get is a generational gap as witnessed by Israel’s history.

The problem of not knowing God’s word

The problem created by such generational gap was that the people lived contrary to the word of God. They did not know the Lord – His word, His ways, and His works. Not having His fear, they rejected the Lord, their God and lived as they pleased.

They did not consider the God of their fathers relevant to their generation, hence they went after new gods with disastrous consequences. They abandoned the God of their fathers and forfeited His promises, protection, and provisions.

Consequences of forsaking God

The consequences of forsaking God was that He also forsook them. He did not drive out the enemies as He had promised their forefathers. Their enemies became thorns on their sides and their gods became snares to them.

Every generation has a duty of care to preserve and pass on godly values to the next generation in order to avoid a generational gap. If the next generation could not recognise or relate to our God, we have failed them. It is your responsibility to ensure that godly values are passed on to your children and they in turn will pass it on to their children. This is how to avert a generational gap and its consequences.

“ One generation shall laud your works to another and shall declare your mighty acts“

Psalm 145:4