If we don’t invest in the next generation, someone else will.
CBS News reported a few years ago that advertising budget that was poured into marketing to the next generation grew as the years went by.
In 1983, it was a mere $100 million.
By the time 2007 hit, it ballooned to a whopping $17 billion.
Advertisers and companies seemed to think it was worth their money because research tell us (www.globalissues.org) that teens spend about $160 billion for their gadgets, clothing, food, games among many other things. Those who are in their “tweens” (8-12 year olds), spend about $30 billion. Those who are under 12, influence their parents to spend about $670 billion per year.
If Nike, Xbox, and Mcdonalds see this, why can’t we?
We obviously don’t have the billions they have, but we have a gospel that is powerful to make a difference not just for a game or two, or for a year or two, not even for a decade but for all of eternity.
Hannah prayed to have a son and God granted her request in 1 Samuel 1.
What can we learn from her story?
1. Pray for the next generation.
Hannah prayed to the Lord for Samuel.
We need to pray for the next generation. With all the bombardments from all sides, growing up in this environment these days can be challenging.
We need to pray that they will hear meet God early in life and desire to live for Him the rest of their lives.
2. Prepare the next generation.
Hannah waited until Samuel was weaned.
Time will come that we will have to release the next generation to fight their own battles.
We cannot always be there and we should not even try.
Not letting them fight their battles will end up emasculating them.
Our goal is to see them become less dependent on us and more dependent on God.
3. Mentor the next generation.
Hannah found someone who can mentor Samuel with her – Eli.
We need to see the value of multiple anchors.
It’s nice to dream that our kids will always hear what we say.
But input from others in invaluable.
I’m thankful for David, Rich, Joey and Joe who have mentored my son Nathan all through these years.
I’m grateful for Rica, Dar, Carla who have taken time to impart faith and life into the life of my daughter Janina.
Raising the next generation is so much better when we have partners who can help us.
Oh another thing, it is also great to bring our children into an environment where they can encounter God, hear the gospel of Christ and receive Him as Lord and Savior.
Our kids ministry at Victory Fort recently had their Camp Equip for the pre teens and it was absolutely powerful.
Watch the video below.