Aging gracefully and graciously

God is at work in each one of us. 

If we submit to His work, we can have more godly beauty show through our "rough spots." He is still loving, teaching, creating us in His image; it works a lot better when we willingly participate!

But it does take work. It takes contemplating our past and considering our future. It requires asking Him what He wants us to do, and then being obedient to His will. The payoff? Tremendous! A peace and a quiet contentment that transcends the world's understanding. Our relationship with God improves. Our relationships with others improve. And we feel we have a real purpose for the mature years of our lives. 

Grab a pen or pencil and a small piece of paper. 

Ready?

Write some thoughts down . . . .What words do you think of when you think of aging? Growing older? Think about those for a moment. 

Were all of the words that you wrote negative words? Do they make us feel vulnerable?

If so, remembering God as our refuge can help.

Be my rock of refuge,
    to which I can always go;
give the command to save me,
    for you are my rock and my fortress. (Psalm 71:3, NIV)

Back there (a couple of paragraphs ago) when you thought of words that describe growing older . . . did any of them seem vibrant? Active? Or were you seeing a rocking chair in your mind's eye? (Grin) Does a purpose-filled life seem at odds with "aging"?

Remembering that God has a purpose for our lives can help.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Since my youth, God, you have taught me,
    and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.

Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till l I declare your power to the next generation,  your mighty acts to all who are to come. (Psalm 71:17-18)

You see, as we begin (or continue) to deal with the outward effects of aging, we may have a tendency to focus on ourselves. But we have a job to do!

The psalmist reminds us that it's our responsibility to declare the goodness and power of God to the next generation. With our words and with our behavior, we need to be telling our story. We all have different (and wonder filled) stories of God's love and provision for us - some of us have miracles to tell. If we fail in our responsibility there will be two results: we will be miserable, and we'll leave a negative effect on those who follow us in life. If we are not showing that God is sufficient for our old age, how will younger persons be inspired to trust Him in their lives? 

God is faithful! We need to "say" that not only with our words but our behavior. Our lives need to be intentional - focused on completing His purpose for us. 

Self focused? Depressed? We are failing to give our families an example of aging faithfully.

Not interested in talking? We are missing our opportunities to tell our "God-stories" to strengthen our children and friends in their faith.

I'd like to leave you with a couple of challenges for this weekend. First, read (and re-read) Psalm 71. I think we will be referring to this passage during our study. Second, choose a photo or a small item that reminds you of one of your own stories. Write a brief note and then choose someone to gift this to. You may never realize this side of heaven what your story will inspire someone to endure or to achieve!