Old Age

<<later stage of life>>

Growing old and death are a normal part of life in this world, yet no one is guaranteed to live to old age. Even for those who do, life is relatively short with beauty soon passing (Prov 31:30; Jas 4:14; 1 Pet 1:24). Hence, we should try to make every day count for

Don’t die before you are dead!

eternity as we live in relationship with God. As His children, we have a duty to be good stewards or guardians of the total ‘us’ that God has given and for which we will be accountable. We should endeavour to maintain our overall health and well-being in order to live to our best at any age, and repeatedly throughout our lifetime ensure we have addressed the meaning of life, are fulfilling our God-given purpose and giving attention to the type of legacy we are leaving (Eccl 12:13). Do not put these all-important matters off, thinking you will attend to them at a later stage, for we don’t know when our time on earth will end (Gen 27:2; Job 14:5; Ps 39:4, 90:12; Eccl 9:12). We are to seriously consider the shortness of this life that will certainly end and the consequences of our lifestyle choices. Growing old is a privilege denied to many, so it is vital to come into a true and deepening relationship with Christ, prepared for whenever it happens “For it appointed unto man to die once and then face the judgement’ (Heb 9:27).

As a rule, older folk have a depth of knowledge, wisdom and experience that is valuable to the younger generation and are to be respected in spite of their often forgetfulness, slowness of movement and lack of technological capabilities. Once more socially active, many older people including those who have suffered the loss of their spouse are lonely, or no longer have the energy to be involved. Rather than seniors repeatedly rehearsing their exploits, and discussing their aches and pains it is better to foster relationships, speaking about the Lord and His blessings, besides passing on Godly insights that will continue to advance the Kingdom of God. Why conform to the world's mind-set of being 'past it'? Active involvement in mind-stimulating activities and regular physical activity can delay or slow the progression of mental ailments. Eat a healthy balanced diet as what we eat plays a big role in our health and well-being. Maintaining social connections challenges our minds and helps keep our cognitive function in good order. Stay curious and always learning. Forgive yourself and others. We all have regrets about some of the choices we have made or the things that we have been subject to, but don’t let the past dictate the present. God is able to use the “all things” for our ultimate good and His glory as we cooperate with Him (Gen 50:20; Rom 8:28; Eph 1:5,6).

Staying on top of preventive care through regular physical check-ups is an essential component of healthy aging. Although our bodies and minds may not work the way they used to, with feelings of sometimes being out of control as challenges seem more demanding we can still enjoy life and pursue our passions by learning new skills, trying new activities, and adapting to changing circumstances can all help us stay engaged, fulfilled, and alive. Change can be scary, but with Jesus, we can cope so embrace the opportunities with enthusiasm. It is healthy to have valuable interaction with young people too, and downsize your worldly possessions while you are able, not leaving this to the next generation.

There should be no such thing as retirement for the Christian, so while not as physically involved they can mentor younger believers and devote more time to the vital ministry of prayer – “The righteous will…still bear fruit in old age” (Ps 92:12,14). When Moses died at

Am I still spiritually productive?

the age of 120 "his eyes were not weak nor his strength gone" and Caleb was 85 when he said, "I am still strong and vigorous...now give me this hill country and with the Lord's help I will drive out the enemies" (Deut 34:7; Josh 14:10-12). Although there will be regrets in later life don’t let them blight your spirit, instead make the most of the present and utilise it for His glory. As our life on earth is only over when God says it is, live for Him until the day you die. Near the end of their lives both Jesus and Paul said they had finished the work God had given them (Jn 19:28,30; 2 Tim 4:7). Can I honestly say I am approaching the completion of what God requires of me?

We are not to forget the sacrifices our parents made for us, and who now may be in need of our care themselves. The Bible commands us to honour our parents and care for them (Ex 20:12; Eph 6:2,3; 1 Tim 5:3,4,8). For those with less than ideal parents this will require forgiving them for the past offences – this will bring a release to your spirit.

All adults should have legal documents (wills) that give clear direction as to how they desire their possessions to be disposed of after they die.