As I was reading the book of 1 Chronicles, one verse stood out and stirred something deep within me: “From the tribe of Issachar, there were 200 leaders of the tribe with their relatives. all these men understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take” (1 Chronicles 12:32). This verse echoes like a prophetic word for our land today. In a time when Israel was fragmented and searching for direction, the sons of Issachar emerged, not because of their might or fame but because of their discernment. They understood their moment in history and they knew what needed to be done.
A Society in crisis and Transition
Like ancient Israel, today the people of Nagaland stand at a similar crossroad. Our society is undergoing rapid and sometimes disorienting change. Unemployment continues to rise among educated youth. Corruption have left many disillusioned. Technology has brought connection but it has also ushered in a wave of distraction, addiction and detachment from reality. Young people are being shaped more by social media and entertainment than by Scripture. Moral confusion is growing where truth feels negotiable and biblical convictions are viewed as outdated. Many are facing an identity crisis torn between modern culture and their Christian faith. Even in our churches, there is a quiet drift where the personal hunger for God, the depth of discipleship and the power of conviction are slowly fading.
The Need for a New Issachar Generation
In such a time, we desperately need a generation of Issachar, young men and women who can read the signs of our times with clarity and respond with courage. We need those who are deeply rooted in God’s truth yet fully aware of the realities of our land. The sons of Issachar were not prophets in the traditional sense but their spiritual insight shaped national decisions. Their discernment was not only theological, it was also practical. They could read the pulse of the people and understand the moment they were living in and know the best course of action.
Intentional Nurturing is Crucial
Raising such a generation will not happen by accident. It calls for intentional nurturing from families, churches and societies. Parents must create homes where faith is lived where their children see decisions guided by prayer and Godly wisdom. Churches must become places of formation, not just platforms. Beyond programs and preaching, we must recover the value of mentoring, teaching young people how to interpret Scripture, discern truth and walk in obedience. In a time when culture is louder than conscience, we need to train our young minds to think biblically, speak graciously and act boldly. We must ask ourselves, who are the modern-day Issachar among us? Are we raising them in our churches, our classrooms and our homes? Or are we reinforcing systems that reward conformity and silence discernment?
A Call to All Spheres of Influence
This is a call to the Church, to families and to young hearts across Nagaland. We need a generation of Issachar those who see clearly, stand firmly and lead wisely. We need people who will rise above tribalism, political games and shallow religion to align with God’s purpose for this land. In these uncertain days, may the Lord awaken Issachar hearts among us, those who will understand the times and know what must be done. May they lead Nagaland into a future not just of change, but of Godly transformation marked by hope, healing and heavenly direction.
Conclusion
We do not need another trend. We need timeless truth and timely wisdom. The generation of Issachar is not just a historical idea. It is a prophetic invitation. It’s a call to spiritual clarity, cultural engagement and courageous leadership. As parents, pastors, teachers and youth, let us not wait for someone else to rise. Let us become the answer. Let us build homes that cultivate discernment, churches that equip the soul and communities that call out destiny. May God raise up Issachar hearts in our day, people who understand the times and lead with conviction, compassion and courage.
~ Bendangliba Andrew