The Weekly Encourager – March 29, 2017 – One Generation to Another

“One generation shall praise Thy works to another, and shall declare Thy mighty acts.” - Psalm 145:4

When I was younger, I used to think this verse referred to older people teaching the younger ones, in particular, parents training their own children. Now I'm older, I know that I can learn just as much from the younger folks as they can learn from me.

For example, I am fortunate to be part of a women's Bible study which includes Christian women of diverse ages. The last time we met, only four of us were able to come: two 20-somethings and two older moms. A comment from one person led to an excellent discussion about relationships and marriage. It was great to have a safe place to honestly share problems and practical solutions. The younger women are just starting out and trying to do it right; the older women are renewing relationships which may have suffered trials along the way.

In both cases, the challenges we face are sent by a sovereign God who loves us and works all things for our good. Of course we seek answers from His word, but one of God's best gifts to us is the Body of Christ. The fellowship of other believers is God's provision for our need. As I tried to encourage the younger ladies from my own experience, I found I was getting encouragement from them as well. In some cases, I've known these young women since they were born, and I have watched them develop into lovely ladies of faith. It's nice to know I've had a small part in that by being part of a community growing up into Christ, the Head. What a blessing to learn from them as they walk their own paths with the Lord. Likewise what a blessing to have had older ladies who mentored me at critical times in my life.

Now that I've moved from eyeliner to recliner, I am in no way superior to these younger believers. In fact, the longer I live, the more I realize the value of their contributions. While it's pleasant to hang out with people who are like ourselves, we grow as we connect with people from different backgrounds and in different stages of life, with different experiences and perspectives to offer. Seek out opportunities to befriend someone who is different than you. I think you'll find surprising blessing.

No matter what your age, make true fellowship a priority. Light-hearted activities are good, but we were also designed with a need to be known on a deeper level. We need a safe place to share, learn, laugh, and pray together. We need people who will tell us the truth, challenge us, and hold us accountable. That deeper level of freedom comes with trust, and faithful commitment over time helps make trust possible. When we find a place where we can share our struggles as well as our joys, then we are encouraging one another in Christ. It's even more special when it happens across generations. It becomes a successful family. We are building up our hope together as we tell one another how God is working in our lives.

“I will extol Thee, my God, O King; and I will bless Thy name forever and ever. Every day I will bless Thee, and I will praise Thy name forever and ever. Great is the Lord, and highly to be praised; and His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Thy works to another, and shall declare Thy mighty acts.” - Psalm 145:1-4

God is faithful,
j