THE OLDER THE BETTER

I remember saying that getting old beat the alternative (dying young).  I still say that, but I’d rather have the alternative of staying young my whole life!  Why did God make it so we age?  Why not let us stay young in body even as we age and mature in experience and wisdom?  That would be the best of both worlds!  Perhaps He wants to humble us.  Or maybe He is letting us know we are running out of time and to make sure we are ready for the next world. 

One thing I know for sure is that He isn’t done with us as long as we are alive.  Our culture may write off old people, but God does not.  He honors those who follow Him in their old age (Proverbs 16:31).  He promises He will be with us even in our later years (Isaiah 46:4; Psalm 91:16).   He says He will give us strength and energy for what He wants us to do (Ruth 4:15; Isaiah 40:31; Psalm 91:16).  When we follow Him, we will gain wisdom as we age (Job 12:12; 32:7; Proverbs 20:29). 

God has special purposes for us in each stage of our lives, and it all works together to make us more like Jesus (Philippians 1:6).  That is true as long as we are alive.  He promises we can still bear fruit in our old age (Psalm 92:14; Psalm 92:12-14).  He encourages us to stay active in His service (Titus 2:2-5). 

If you are still alive, whatever age you are, He has a purpose for you.  Are you fulfilling it?

Proverbs 16:31 Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is obtained by following a righteous path.

2 Corinthians 4:16-17 That is why we are not discouraged. Though outwardly we are wearing out, inwardly we are renewed day by day. Our suffering is light and temporary and is producing for us an eternal glory that is greater than anything we can imagine.

Do you ever use your age as an excuse to not do something God wants you to do, like serve, pray, worship or give?  Ask God to show you what special purpose He has for you in your stage of life.  Then make sure you accomplish what He wants.