Yes, in some ways I believe it is harder for young people today than it was a generation or so ago. For example, every day they’re bombarded with messages from the media that mock traditional moral values and urge them to live only for themselves. They also face temptations we seldom knew, such as illicit drugs.

All of this is having a devastating effect on many young people, and on our future. When we cast off the moral values that have guided our society for centuries, what are we left with? We’re left with a world in which everyone lives only for the moment, and only for themselves. I’m reminded of the prophet Hosea’s words concerning his own generation: “They sow the wind and reap the whirlwind” (Hosea 8:7). Only a spiritual awakening can save us.

But in other ways the world has not changed, and neither has the hunger of the human heart for God. In fact, many young people today — dissatisfied with the emptiness of so much of what they see around them — are coming to Christ through our ministry. This summer, my son Franklin has been holding a special series of meetings (called “Rock the River”) focused on young people — with an amazing response.

Pray for your grandchildren, and pray too for their parents. Only Christ can meet the deepest needs of our hearts, no matter how young or old we are. Is He the Lord of your life?