The anxious generation

Jonathan Haidt’s recent book on anxiety amongst teenagers being exacerbated by smartphone usage rings true. But the title of his book The Anxious Generation could be applied more widely to Western society.

We are becoming accustomed to a world of constant threat and uncertainty. The Covid pandemic ramped up social anxiety to such an extent that mask wearing and lockdowns were not only legally mandated but actually welcomed by many.

Now we are told that we are on the brink of World War III; Europe is alarmed by Putin’s ‘forever war’ in Ukraine, and his ambitions to extend the conflict. China’s hoarding of gold suggests that an attack on Taiwan is imminent. Meanwhile we are constantly told that we are in a ‘climate crisis’. And economically, Western governments seem to be struggling to manage uncertain prospects and historically high levels of debt.

It may be a climate of anxiety which is at the root of the current population crisis, with birth rates plunging below replacement levels and fears that we will be unable to sustain Western economies with a shrinking workforce and a growing elderly population. In Christian circles it may be a sense of personal and economic uncertainty which explains why fewer men are coming forward for vocational Christian ministry: very reluctant to contemplate a move, or going away for residential training.

Yet, as Christians, we should surely know that the kingdom of this world has always been an uncertain place. We know that there will always be ‘wars and rumours of wars’, not to mention famines and plagues. There is only one Kingdom which cannot be shaken. It is in times of anxiety and uncertainty that our testimony should shine most brightly.

Our faith is anchored in three convictions. First, we believe in the sovereignty of God. While world leaders flounder, cultures shift, and financial markets soar or plunge, the Lord is in control. We do not know the future, but we know that He is in control. Second, we know that the church, the people of God, is at the heart of God’s purposes. While the people of the world may be anxious and uncertain, we know that our Father in heaven will care for us and work out all things for our good and for His glory. Third, we know what the future holds; the gospel will ultimately triumph and Christ will return in glory to establish His kingdom of righteousness.

If as Christians we find ourselves gripped by anxiety and fear, perhaps we are too devoted to the kingdom of this world, too fond of our worldly comforts and security. This season of turmoil can be helpful in reminding us where our true joy and security is found.

In the first century, the apostle Peter expected Christians to have opportunity to speak about their faith because the unbelieving world would ask them for reasons for their hope (1 Peter 3:15). In the midst of suffering, believers remained peaceful and continued to do good to others. If we are convinced of our security in Christ, and confident of God’s purposes, we can afford to take risks and to remain joyful in troubled times.

The missionary pioneers William Carey and Adoniram Judson took great risks and endured much suffering in the cause of Christ. To both of them is attributed the saying which we would do well to take up today: ‘The future is as bright as the promises of God.’