The Lord reminds us more than once in His Word that growing older is an honor. “Gray hair is a crown of glory;…it is gained by living a godly life.” Proverbs 16:31 NLT.
The more years we live, we have more experiences to learn from; and, the more wisdom and perspective we gain enable us to see life in new and beautiful ways. When we see someone in their later years (or when we look in the mirror…and it’s us!), let’s remember what a gift that is.
And while the media leads us to believe that youth somehow has more value, the truth is, we are treasured by God at every age. Not only that, He gives us specific gifts to share with the world in every season of our lives.
In Titus 2: 3-5 NLT, Paul reminds the older women of their great purpose – that by living reverent lives of love, self-control, purity and kindness, they will bless and nurture the hearts of the younger women and their families. The generations to come depend on our willingness to share what God has given us.
Some of us also fear growing older for physical reasons. Aging is often seen as a loss of control. Maybe our bodies aren’t able to do what they once could; our memories aren’t as sharp; we begin to need more help than we used to. As the years pass, our fear of the unknown may grow stronger.
But the truth is, we’ve never been in control anyway! From the moment we were created— whether we’ve realized it or not—we’ve relied on our Creator for every breath. Growing older helps us to shed that illusion of control more and more, and to rest in the promises of our loving God. Whether we’re 9 or 90, He vows to be with us every step of the way.
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God has given us the gift of aging. God gave those who are already in their golden years an opportunity to pass on the knowledge they have gained from many years of life to others, helping them grow and learn.
I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. (Isaiah 46:4 NLT)
Your wisdom and knowledge are like a treasure trove for those who need it. Your experiences have been shared as a teaching moment for future generations. Each one of these privileges is a blessing!
Elders in our lives, such as our grandparents or parents, are there to guide us to the glory and praise of the Messiah. As we navigate our way on earth, we must listen to their counsel.
When you celebrate your birthday or that of someone you love, remember that every day in every life matters. Don’t wait for a milestone to make it extra special. Look in the mirror and cherish your laugh lines; remember how they were created.
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Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained by living a godly life. Proverbs 16:31 NLT
“The glory of the young is their strength; the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old.” Proverbs 20:29 NLT
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 NLT
Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer person is decaying, yet our inner person is being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16 NASB
“Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?” Job 12:12 NIV
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 NIV
I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. Isaiah 46:4 NLT
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If you have a story or testimony that you think might bless others,
I invite you to send it by email to me (Kenneth Kersey) at godsotherways@me.com.
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