Tell the Next Generation

“We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done… so the next generation would know them… and they in turn would tell their children.” — Psalm 78:4, 6

Psalm 78 is a summons to sacred memory. Asaph, the psalmist, opens with an urgent appeal: “My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth” (v.1). What follows is not merely a history lesson—it is a spiritual inheritance. We are stewards of a story too good to keep to ourselves.

God’s faithfulness spans generations. He performed wonders in Egypt, led His people through the wilderness, gave them His Word at Sinai, and raised up leaders like David. But these stories must not fade into distant memory. “We will not hide them from their descendants,” Asaph says. Instead, we must tell—tell the stories of God’s goodness, so that “they would put their trust in God and not forget his deeds but would keep his commands” (v.7).

Every Christian has a testimony. It may not include parting seas or burning bushes, but if God has met you in your brokenness, forgiven your sins, or comforted you in sorrow, you have a story worth sharing. As Eugene Peterson wrote, “Memory is the most important element in the spiritual life.” Forgetfulness leads to rebellion (v.8); remembrance leads to trust.

Charles Spurgeon encouraged believers: “Tell your children of it, and let your grandchildren hear of it, and hand it down to the generation following.” This is how faith endures—not through silence, but through witness.

Let us be a people who hear God’s Word, remind one another of His deeds, and remember His faithfulness—so the next generation will rise up, trust in the Lord, and keep His commands.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the faithful ones who passed down the truth of who You are. Help us to be bold and loving in sharing our stories of Your power and grace. Let the next generation rise with hearts loyal to You. Amen