Lately I’ve come to realize that I haven’t always been very encouraging when it comes to the younger generation.
It’s not as though I’ve said bad things to them, or about them. But I’ve not always viewed them as worthy of my “praise”, if you know what I mean.
After all, how could they be as spiritual as my generation?
This younger bunch doesn’t look like me and they don’t talk like I do. And they seem to understand technology like they invented it.
I’ve acted like “How can the Kingdom of God continue with all of the spiritual giants dying off?” Like my generation is the only one that ever walked with God.
But you know what? People probably felt the same way about my generation. Yes, we were once very young and inexperienced.
Lately I’ve spent time with some young kids. And my, do they seem young. But I started thinking how important it is for me to keep my negative thoughts to myself. In fact, I need to bury the negativity and start cheering them on!
The writer of Hebrews wrote a word that, I believe, was supposed to be encouraging to us all.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,” (Hebrews 12:1 ESV)
“Since we are surrounded…” seems to indicate a group of spectators, fans, standing alongside a track where those in the race are running. The group isn’t screaming at them, “You’ll never make it!” “We ran differently when we carried the baton.” “I can’t believe God would ever trust you to carry the baton!”
No! The group, the great cloud of witnesses is CHEERING THEM ON! Cheering you and I on!
The cheering helps us run better, work harder, and be our very best for the King and His Kingdom.
Don’t you think it would encourage younger generations if we became their cheerleaders and helpers (if they ask), instead of their know-it-all critics?
I sure do.
That’s why I’m gonna quit finding fault with people because they’re young. I’m cheering on this group of believers, and praying they accomplish much more than I ever dreamed of – for the Kingdom of Righteousness.
Hey, I’m not finished working. And I know how great it feels when someone tells me they believe in me and what I’m trying to accomplish.
So, call me a working cheerleader. Working with all my heart, while at the same time, cheering on my younger (some a lot younger) brothers and sisters.
Yeah! Go get ’em, kids!
Jan Grace 