Devotional from @texyouthsummit chaplain @chetcollins7: Passing the Baton: Why Generations Need Each Other In Psalm 71:18, David, the great Warrior King who defeated Goliath and established the most powerful kingdom of that day, makes a powerful prayer near the end of his life: “Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have showed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.” David understood that his life was not complete until what God had done in him was passed through him to the next generation. He didn’t want to simply finish well—he wanted to leave a spiritual deposit in those coming after him. This is not just David’s personal desire; it is a biblical principle. The Value of the Older Generation The older generation offers more than theory—they offer experience. Experience includes lessons learned through hardship, faith tested in real-life storms, and wisdom forged over time. Scripture affirms this repeatedly, even instructing that older women should teach younger women (Titus 2), and Paul training Timothy. God designed maturity to pour into youth. David’s goal was not to be admired for his past, but to impart strength to the future. A Message for Millennials and Gen Z Today’s younger generations are growing up in a world filled with uncertainty, fear about the future, and constant instability. Jesus told us the world would be troubled—but He also promised to be our peace. That is why it is so important to seek mentors, learn from spiritually grounded people, and allow those with experience to speak into your life. There is great wisdom in learning from people who have already walked through seasons you are just beginning. At our son Christian’s wedding (CEO and founder of TXYS), a young man he grew up with shared something meaningful. He said, "though my lifestyle was different than Christian's, he has always been a stability in my life.” That statement reveals a powerful truth: godly influence brings stability, even in uncertain environments. Jesus Christ is our anchor in a turbulent world. Building a Personal Relationship with Jesus I want to encourage you to take time each day—even five minutes—to open your Bible, read and pray quietly in your heart. Choose a translation you can understand, such as the NIV, and begin reading. The book of John is a good place to start if you've never read the bible. A personal relationship with Jesus is developed through time, sincerity, and consistency. Church is good, worship is powerful, and community with others matters—but building a personal relationship with Jesus comes first. Grounded in Biblical Values Through Texas Youth Summit, we’ve seen that true leadership and influence are strongest when grounded in Judeo-Christian principles. Many who have excelled politically and professionally are also deeply spiritual. Our foundation matters. A Final Encouragement Like David, may we not finish our lives without first showing God’s strength to this generation and His power to the next. And to the younger generation: seek wisdom, value experience, build your relationship with Jesus, and surround yourself with people who strengthen your faith. God works through generations.