Generation Z: Born for the StormSample

Born for Influence: Zeruiah

Generation Z is now the largest generation on the planet. There are 7.8 billion people on earth, and 2.47 billion, or 31 percent, are Gen Zers. Their numbers alone position them to make a significant impact.They are already influencing consumer and financial decisions; desiring security, authenticity, and social value; and expecting speed, convenience, and great service. Over the next decade, their influence and leadership will be felt throughout the world.

Zeruiah was one of King David’s sisters. She witnessed God raise her brother to prominence in Israel. She saw Samuel anoint him, cheered as Goliath fell, sang with other Israelite maidens when the Philistines were defeated, and prayed when David faced Saul’s threats. How proud she must have been when David was finally anointed and accepted as king! Zeruiah had three sons: Abishai, Joab, and Asahel. All three found a place in David’s army.

Zeruiah’s oldest son, Abishai, was close to David and served with him in the wilderness while fleeing from Saul. He commanded one of the three divisions of David’s army. He personally killed 300 of the enemy in one battle, saved David from Ishbi-benob, and helped kill David’s rebellious son, Absalom.

Zeruiah’s middle son, Joab, became the general of David’s army. He led the charge to take Jerusalem as the capital and was the king’s closest confidant. He was a fierce and sometimes brutal warrior. Joab did not finish well, as he did not transfer his loyalty to David’s successor, Solomon. However, he was among the mightiest of men.

The youngest son, Asahel, was the least prominent of the three brothers. Even so, he was still named among David’s 30 mighty men. Asahel was a fast runner. He was killed by Abner in a battle with the sons of Saul.

Zeruiah is not well-known, yet her influence was mighty. Through her children, she may have done as much or more than any other person in the Bible to extend the kingdom of God’s anointed. Scripture is filled with people who had great influence but were not popular or well-known.Tomorrow’s presidents, prime ministers, educators, business leaders, scientists, doctors, artists, inventors, researchers, conveners, and cultural missionaries are currently in classrooms around the world (or maybe somewhere in a corner playing video games). Gen Z is about to make history. Their time has come. The Holy Spirit has marked them for this moment.

For more of this subject or to download a free excerpt from Dr. Wilson’s book, Generation Z: Born for the Storm, please visit: https://drbillywilsonbooks.com/