There are still cultures and countries in the world that respect older generations. Increasingly, the United States of America isn’t one of them. And that’s a tragic shame.
When I grew up–which wasn’t that long go–I was taught to respect my elders. My parents were gracious and tolerant when it came to some of my mistakes and misdeeds, but one thing they emphasized was respect. There was no tolerance for disrespect. That was drilled into me.
But it wasn’t just me. It was (for the most part) that way all around. Parents and teachers were respected. Grandparents were honored. Any adult was addressed with “Mr.” or “Mrs.” rather than first names.
Looking back into history, I know that this began to change in the countercultural years of the 1960s and 1970s, but it hadn’t caught up with my little world as I was being raised. For my parents and most of the people I knew…
Respect your elders was a widely cherished and important virtue.
Today, we live in a world where youth is idolized and age is often mocked. Social media and mainstream media alike amplify voices that treat older generations with disdain. “Okay, Boomer” has become a shorthand dismissal—usually sarcastic, often smug.
And more than that, many young people today casually reject the beliefs, traditions, and lived experiences of those who came before them (including their own parents), often without listening or seeking to understand.
Peter’s words in 1 Peter 5:5 speak powerfully into this moment:
“Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility…”
This isn’t a call for authoritarian control. It’s not saying older people are always right. But it is a call for humility—for a posture that listens, honors, and learns. The humility Peter describes applies to everyone, but he begins with the younger submitting to elders for a reason.
Pride and impatience often show up most fiercely in youth.
And here’s the clincher: God resists the proud. That’s what Peter tells us. It’s what James tells us. It’s what Solomon tells us.
The very pride that fuels generational division is the same pride that hardens hearts and distances people from God’s grace.
The church should be different. In a world that throws out the past and idolizes the new, Christians are called to value wisdom, honor legacy, and walk in mutual submission.
Humility isn’t weakness—it’s the doorway to grace.
Thank you for Reading!
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Amen on that Pastor. There’s no respect these days, and very little in my 14 year old grandson. Your writing was short and sweet but to the point.
Blessings,
Tom