The next generation

“After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the Lord nor what He had done for Israel.” Judges 2:10
Here at the very start of the book of Judges, we find a verse that sets the scene for the rest of the book. The theme of the book of Judges can be summed up in Judg. 17:6 and Judg. 21:25 – “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit.” Despite their glorious beginning of total reliance on God, bringing them out of Egypt, it was only a few generations after Joshua led the people into the Promised Land that a generation grew up having no knowledge of God.
We see this today, to varying degrees. There are kids growing up who have only ever heard the name of Jesus used as a curse word – and use it as such themselves, because they are copying their parents and people on TV. Can they be held accountable for this? This is a difficult question to answer... please feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts. On one hand, the Bible tells us that “the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name” (Ex. 20:7, Deut. 5:11). But we also know about the age of accountability, that a child who sins prior to this age of knowing right from wrong, will not be held accountable. During this time, it is up to their parents to train them in the right way – and this includes teaching them about what is right with regards to the use of the name of God.
It pains me deeply when I hear children using foul language and blasphemy. But often, all I can do is pray, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do!”