THE AGE OF AGING

I Was Just Thinking About – THE AGE OF AGING.

Every tick of the clock and every heart beat can serve as a reminder that our lives are constantly in a state of change. We move from infancy to old age rapidly. We notice some of physical changes when aches and pains become more of a reality. One can replace knees and hips. While that removes some pain or discomfort it also introduces one to some degree of less functionality. With knee replacement, there is less of an ability to comfortably kneel (unless one has padding on the knees). For those experiencing arthritis, fluidness in motion is irretrievably lost. There is a gradual loss of hearing and one’s vision begins to dim. The teeth and gums can become impacted and need major care. These and many other indicators become apparent as aging occurs.

The Bible addresses the subject of the life span and aging. James 4:14 expresses it: “What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” In an expanded way regarding life as a mist, Psalm 90:10 defines it: “Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.” In II Corinthians 4:16, Paul shares: “Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day.

Chuck Dolph wrote an article on “Thank God for Aging” that was published in Torch Magazine and stated: “If we live long enough, we will lose our beauty, our strength, our wealth, our independence, the control of our bodily functions, our pride, and perhaps our very self. These are our idols, all the things that we trust in life to make us attractive, valuable, and self-sufficient.” How should the Biblical Christian view aging? There are some who wish they could resist and prevent it – but – they can’t. Do, what should one do and how should one deal with the reality of aging? Proverbs 16:31(NKJV) reminds us: “The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.”

Within individual families, as well as in The Body of Christ – The Church, there should be an acceptance of the aged and treating the same with respect and dignity. Too often, the aging/elderly are tolerated rather than being viewed as a significant person with whom and for whom God has an ongoing purpose. Don’t ignore them but rather include them. 

In Isaiah 46:4 (NLT), The Lord reminds His own: “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.” There is also a word of guidance in 1 Timothy 5:1-2 (ESV) “Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity.” I know of some who need to take these words to heart – NOW! These are God’s words that He wants us all to obey and implement.

Prayerfully – consider these things with me.

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