Isaiah records a fascinating judgement from the Lord on the people of Jerusalem and Judah:

I will make mere youths their officials; children will rule over them.

People led by inexperienced leaders too young for the job are in for a rough ride. Pay attention to politics or businesses or churches or non-profits long enough and you’ll see this play out.

Now contrast that thought with the perspective fostered by current western culture. Perhaps you recognize this song lyric—I believe that children are the future, teach them well and let them lead the way.

Do I really want to be led by a child?

One of the tragedies of our day is the proliferation of young influencers via social media. These youth encourage their peers to buy expensive products or live unique lifestyles or treat people in certain ways, always with a focus on themselves. An unprecedented flood of narcissism flows from influencer to subscriber who drink deeply, poisoning their soul in the process. I’m reminded of Jesus’s warning—when the blind lead the blind, both end up in the ditch.

So much better to promote older, wiser, patient leaders. I know I need older, wiser, patient friends and mentors. We should encourage the older, wiser, patient among us to speak and not go quietly into the night.

One more thought. Whenever possible, we must match the members of our youngest generations with the members of our oldest generations. That way the truly worthy influencers will have their say.

Isaiah 3 in reading the Bible cover to cover in 2022

Photo by Steve Gale