Analysis. Opinions concerning the younger generations are often divided — some view them in a positive light, and some view them negatively. All opinions notwithstanding, however, one thing is certain: The members of Generation Z (generally, ages 10–25) are active in voicing their concerns. Whether on social media, in the workplace, or, most recently, in the polls, Gen Z is making itself heard.

Who is praying on the wall?

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While going through the statistics of the midterm elections’ turnout, I was surprised by just how active these young voters really are. Here is how various media outlets describe what happened on election night:

“Gen Z turnout may have stopped a ‘red wave.’ Young voters say they were underestimated” (The Philadelphia Inquirer).

“Gen Z announces itself in midterms with Democratic boost, historic wins” (The Washington Post).

“Researchers say 2022 election had second highest young voter turnout in last 30 years” (The Hill).

What did these young people do that was so important on election night? It’s simple: They showed up.

To be sure, the fact that young people are exercising their freedom to vote is worth celebrating. Unfortunately, though, a majority of them voted against biblical values. They voted for candidates who addressed climate change, gun violence, and racial justice. And though those may arguably be good things in and of themselves, Gen Z votes also went to politicians who promise to protect “reproductive” and LGBTQ rights.

According to www.denisonforum.org, while 45% of Gen Z people favor capitalism, 51% lean toward socialism. Moreover, 65% voted to protect abortion, and 70% percent say they believe abortion should be legal in all or most cases. Only 30 percent of young voters say abortion is morally wrong.

There Is Hope

Hard as these statistics might be to accept, I still believe there is hope for this generation. In a series of dreams I had between 2013 and 2019, one theme kept reoccurring: awakening in America. That awakening would always begin in the churches. And no matter how many times I had these dreams, they always pointed to an awakening. The glory of God would invade His church, followed by true repentance, salvation, and deliverance. There was weeping, but there was also joy.

The one element that never changed in these dreams was that the awakening would always begin among the younger people — they would run to the altars and fall on their knees crying out to God. In fact, they led the way, because eventually the adults would follow. The dreams give me continual hope for Gen Z. If you are willing to look into their actions, they are such a special group of young adults.

They are more active than previous generations.

They consider themselves independent thinkers and dislike labels.

They are zealous for any cause which they support.

They are open to listening — more than some might be inclined to believe.

They are aware of the need for social change and are more likely to advocate for it.

It’s clear that they favor social justice, but without the knowledge of Jesus Christ in their fight, it’s all in vain. Without Jesus Christ, it’s all religion and virtue-signaling. They consider themselves to be the “woke” generation, but what they really need is awakening. Lord, bring an awakening to Gen Z!

Can you imagine what would happen if they came wholeheartedly to Jesus Christ? What a weapon in the hand of the Lord they could be!

Gen Z Is Someone You Know

Because we know that God is a generational, covenant-keeping God, what is happening with this young generation does matter. Chances are that someone you know, someone you love — a child, a grandchild, a niece, a nephew — is a member of Gen Z on the wrong side of eternity, fighting the wrong fight.

Whether they be younger people who have left the church, or those who have not been raised in a Christian home at all, some 13% of Gen Z youth consider themselves to be atheist.

Let’s pray for open eyes and tender hearts among them to receive the truth of the gospel message.

And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God (2 Corinthians 4:3–4).

According to the American Psychological Association, Gen Z is 27% more likely to report symptoms of poor mental health, such as depression and anxiety, than previous generations did. Perhaps their being bombarded with news at their fingertips is the source of their constant worry.

Pray that Gen Z would find the hope and peace in Jesus Christ that surpasses all understanding.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27 NIV).

You have probably seen some type of activism among Gen Z. They join together for the cause of equality, diversity, or some other. This shows that Gen Z longs to be heard, valued, and accepted, just as most Christians do.

Pray that the church would lead the way in showing Gen Z the love, acceptance, and community they desire.

Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity (1 Timothy 4:12 NLT).

We have all received gifts from God, and even the unsaved possess natural talents. Our talents are not intended for selfish use, but so that we might serve others.

Pray that the churches would recognize these young people, help them utilize their gifts, and model being the hands and feet of Jesus Christ.

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace … (Peter 4:8–10).

Gen Z, although one of the most active of generations, suffers from hope deferred. Pray that these young people would understand that even though the best-laid plans will fail, God never does. His plans are always for our good.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT).

Let’s Keep Praying

Father, thank You, because You said that children are a gift from God. Thank You, Lord! We lift children and young people up to You now.

 We know there is nothing You cannot do, and that there are none beyond Your reach. We pray that the members of Gen Z would fix their eyes on You and find their hope and help in You. Open their hearts to the light of Your glorious gospel. Give them a fresh revelation of Jesus Christ!

Lord, we bring to You all those who are bound by depression and anxiety; they are longing for peace from the storm — and You, Lord, are the Prince of Peace. 

Everything this generation seeks and desires can be found only in You, our Lord. We know that Your truth is what sets us free. Speak Your truth over Gen Z, and displace every lie, every stronghold the devil has rooted in the minds of these young people. Take what the enemy means for evil, and turn it around for Your good purpose. 

We pray for every prodigal who has wandered from Your truth — that they may encounter Your blessed, merciful, loving presence once again. Turn the hearts of the sons and the daughters back to their Father! 

Help us do our part, as the hands and feet of Jesus, to love, to train, to disciple, and to equip this generation for its appointed awakening. In Jesus’ name we ask all this. Amen.

How are you praying for Gen Z? Share those prayers below! 

IFA Contributing Writer Gloria Robles is a passionate intercessor with a prophetic voice for today. For more from Gloria, go to Spotify or Anchor to listen to her podcast, Something To Share. Photo Credit: Getty Images.