The Power of a Voice
Parenting in today’s world can feel overwhelming, especially as culture and technology seem to change at a dizzying pace. Many of us feel the weight of not having all the answers, and sometimes we’re just trying to keep up. Yet, in the midst of all this uncertainty, there is a deep and steady truth: God does not change. He is not surprised by the challenges we face, and He remains sovereign over history, guiding it toward His purposes. This assurance allows us to face the unknown with courage, even when the path is difficult.
Discipling the next generation is not a program or a checklist; it’s a lifestyle. God’s design for passing on faith is woven into the fabric of everyday life. Parents are called to be the primary spiritual voice in their children’s lives, but they are not meant to do it alone. The community—the church family—plays a vital role as other voices, coming alongside parents to support, encourage, and invest in the next generation. This partnership is both formal, through ministries and programs, and informal, through organic relationships and intentional mentoring. Discipleship is a two-way street, where both adults and young people are shaped and encouraged by one another.
Key Takeaways
– God’s Unchanging Nature in a Changing World
In a world that feels increasingly unpredictable and fast-moving, God remains constant and sovereign. He is not surprised by the challenges we face, and He is actively guiding history toward His purposes. This truth anchors us, allowing us to face uncertainty with courage and hope, knowing that our fears do not have the final word.
– Discipleship as a Lifestyle, Not a Program
Passing on faith to the next generation is not about a set program or a specific time of day. It is about integrating the love and truth of God into the everyday rhythms of life—teaching through both our words and our actions, in the ordinary and unplanned moments. This approach invites authenticity and persistence, even when our efforts feel imperfect or messy.
– The Dual Voices of Discipleship: Parents and Community
While parents are called to be the primary spiritual influence in their children’s lives, they are not meant to carry this responsibility alone. The broader faith community is called to be a second voice, offering support, encouragement, and additional perspectives. This intergenerational partnership reflects God’s design for discipleship and strengthens the faith of both young and old.
– The Cost and Reward of Investing in the Next Generation
Serving in family and youth ministry is not easy; it often requires sacrifice, vulnerability, and perseverance. There are times of exhaustion and doubt, but also moments of deep joy as we witness God at work in the lives of young people. The investment is worth it, not because it is easy, but because it is eternally significant and God promises to work through our faithfulness
– Prayerful Dependence and Partnership with God
Ultimately, the work of discipling the next generation is supernatural—something only God can truly accomplish. Our role is to pray, to seek His guidance, and to partner with Him, trusting that He will equip, empower, and direct us. As we lift up our children, parents, and ministry leaders in prayer, we invite God to do what only He can do: bring revival, healing, and transformation.
Want to help?
Some of the current needs within our kids and youth ministries were shared during the message. Click here to learn more about how you could step into one of those needs. Thank you for prayerfully considering if God may be calling you into one of these roles.
Reflection Questions
- Think about your own family or the families you know. What are some “ordinary moments” in daily life where faith conversations could naturally happen? How could you be more intentional in those times?
- We heard about the importance of both parents and the church community in discipling kids. If you are a parent, who are the “five voices” speaking into your children’s lives? If you are not a parent, how might you become one of the “five voices” for a child or teen in our church?
- We were reminded that God is not surprised by the challenges we face and that He is in control. Is there a specific fear or worry you have about the next generation? How can you bring that to God this week?
- Discipleship is described as a lifestyle, not a program. What is one small change you could make in your daily or weekly routine to help pass on faith more naturally?
- We know that only God can truly bring awakening, healing, and transformation. What is one area where you need to depend more on God’s power rather than your own efforts?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from Aug 24
- “I Thank God”
- “Christ Is Enough”
- “The Blessing” (after the message)
Listen to the songs we play on Sundays by clicking the image below to access our Spotify playlist!
