Futurecast by George Barna

What has happened to morality in our culture?  In Futurecast, Barna asks this question and discusses changes in family life, religious beliefs, technology and our behavior.  We have become a ‘whatever’ generation that isn’t always concerned with gaining real wisdom.  We change our values without thinking of the implications.  The media is becoming even more influential in our lives, which obviously, is not necessarily a good thing.

The trends in Barna’s book are somewhat discouraging.   (I was especially disheartened to read that Christians give less than 3% of their pre-tax income.)  However, the end of each section offers hopeful reflections and practical takeaways.  Rather than lamenting about how times have changed, we can learn to adjust.  We can make wise decisions about the information we take in and can have a positive influence on cultural trends through our wallets!  

Christians speak much louder through their actions than through their words.  If they are taking their cues from the world, rather than God, they won’t have a significant impact on changing what’s around them.  The ultimate message is summarized nicely in one of his comments - “Life is what you make it”.  I couldn’t agree more.

Disclaimer:  I received this book free in exchange for a review.