There is a generation that is pure in its own eyes, and yet is not cleansed from its filth. Proverbs 30:12, TLV
Generational Labels. We have labeled our generations and experts have done their best to characterize and define them. Did you know the origins of this practice came from the marketing and advertising firms that seek to sell products. Yep. That gives a different perspective.
Still, there are some insights we might find useful.
No matter what title we’ve been given, as we have discussed in other blogs, we all arrive on this planet the same — alive. We’ve been given the gift of life from the Giver of Life. What happens from there determines who we can become.
Ironically, the previous generations as well as circumstances affect the tone of future generations. This sowing and reaping into their lives are logical in the Biblical sense. It can help us to understand, but not condone poor behaviors as highlighted in this proverb.
The following is submitted as information for prayer and in how we relate:
- Generation Alpha: (2000-present) because of doting parents and social media, Gen Alpha believes they are so unique that older generations can’t relate to them, which has caused a sense of entitlement. However as they age, Gen Alpha are more likely to be active in social and environmental causes.
- Generation Z: (1996-2014) influenced by reports of global warming, economic uncertainty, terrorism, and technology Gen Z believes in the American dream but are depressed by the economy.
- Y Generation: (1977-1995) most affected by 9/11 and the new phenomenon of school shootings, they were the first generation to receive labels of entitlement yet are offended by this label—most likely because of such unsettling times. They are tech savvy and suffer from depression more than other generations.
- Generation X: (1965-1976) influenced by childhoods where both parents worked, home computers, rise of divorce, Fall of Berlin Wall and the Challenger explosion. Gen X actually enjoy a healthier work-home balance. They love the entrepreneurial life and love entertainment probably due to unsupervised times before and after school.
- Baby Boomers: (1946-1964) influenced by the JFK assassination, Civil Rights, sexual revolution, post WWII economic boom, Apollo moon landing, Woodstock. They wrote letters, sent greeting cards, and believed in the American dream. Difficult to label because there were so many subgroups due to political and musical influences. They share values with older and younger generations still they have no trouble rejecting traditional values.
- The Silent Generation: (1925-1945) influenced by WWII, the Great Depression, rationing, jobs for life, wrote letters and sent greeting cards. This generation was called Silent because the majority conformed to social norms of the time. However, some leaders had a profound impact on the younger generations, which went on to affect their children. Leaders like: Robert Kennedy, Mikhail Gorbachev, Margaret Thatcher, Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, and Gloria Steinem.
Complex People Or . . .
We’re a complex people. Especially when we focus on our own
needs and give into the need to defend our behaviors and beliefs. Why? Because we’re clinging to the gift of life—our way of life—rather than the Giver.
So, that means every generation tends to think their point-of-view is “right and pure.” We feel justified in our behaviors and opinions. And in reality, all the generations have insights that can effect positive changes. We just need to remember the Giver sees who we really are. And we — as His children — should seek Him for help as we overcome those labels. To be influenced by Him.
In the meantime, now we have some insights into other age groups. Being able to understand where they come from enables us to make our attempts to relate. Perhaps we can speak to their need for a Savior, and a Father who loves them dearly.
Think More About It
What generation are you? How has history affected you? Your circumstances? What hampers your growth and freedom? Where will you go for help?
Thanks for stopping by. I always appreciate your insights and comments and—ahem—shares.
