GETTING OLDER – AND BETTER
I’m getting older. I bet you are as well. Have you wondered why we couldn’t stay young and healthy our whole lives? The Bible tells us aging is a byproduct of sin entering the world, part of the curse. We know it humbles us and reminds us time is short so we are ready for life after this life. I am enjoying retirement, although ministry and family seem to keep us as busy in a good way. The thought of never having to work for a pay check again, ever, is something I am still adjusting to.
When I go to India I am well respected and honored because of my age. Part of it may be because many die young and there aren’t as many older people as in the USA. Here seniors have our own sub-culture. Here I have ministry and influence despite my age. In India I have ministry and influence because of my age. Wisdom and respect are earned as we age.
What does God think of old age? Even though it is a result of the curse, God still has many good things to say about it. He says gray hair is a crown of glory (Proverbs 16:31). He promises to be with us even in old age (Isaiah 46:4; Psalm 91:16; Ruth 4:15). There are benefits of getting older. Including wisdom (Job 12:12; 32:7), experience (Proverbs 20:29), fruitfulness in life (Psalm 92:12-14), enjoying children and grandchildren (Proverbs 17:6), righteous living (Proverbs 16:31) and the promise of daily renewal (2 Corinthians 4:16-17).
There is no retirement from serving the Lord (Titus 2:3-5). In fact, in our older years there are often more opportunities to serve than we realize. In our later years we slow down physically but still can enjoy our richest, most rewarding and productive years for the kingdom. After all, if God still has us alive, it must be for a reason. Do you know the reason He still has you on this earth? Are you fulfilling it? Do you see God’s plan and purpose for you in this stage of life?
Isaiah 40:31 But those who keep waiting on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not grow tired.
Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Are you adjusting to the changes in your body and mind as you age?
What are you doing to use your life experience and wisdom to better serve the Lord?
Ask God what He wants you to be doing for Him in this stage of life.