Growing Old

Now also when I am old and greyheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come. —Psalm 71:18, KJV

Growing old is not for the fainthearted. Psalm 71 is a prayer for the aged. The writer understood the challenges of aging and wanted God to favor him with strength. I understand the old man’s desire because I remember, not long ago, the last time I did a spur-of-the-moment cartwheel flip in my backyard. As I was turning in midair, I wondered if I had the strength to complete the move. But praise God, I landed safely on my feet and did not break a wrist or leg. However, my brain had a serious discussion with my body as it chastised it for making such a quick decision without considering the consequences of breaking a bone.

Both my mind and body agreed: no more dangerous moves in the future! The writer of Psalm 71 wanted everyone to know God’s power.

He declares, O Lord, you alone are my hope. I’ve trusted you, O LORD, from childhood. Yes, you have been with me from birth; from my mother’s womb you have cared for me. No wonder I am always praising you! My life is an example to many, because you have been my strength and protection. That is why I can never stop praising you; I declare your glory all day long (verses 5–8, NLT). As we grow old, we can still show God’s strength.

And as we become weaker, we can still proclaim how good and strong God is. Let us not lose heart as we grow old. In the later decades of life, we can still faithfully give our service to God. Many seniors volunteer their time and energy to help feed the poor.

Some are involved in distributing diapers to needy mothers.

Whatever God is calling us to do, we should do it with all our might. Remember, God is greater than our age, and age is only a number. Lord, as we grow older, let us still serve You faithfully. When we grow weak, help us to show others Your strength.

Through our wrinkles, let others see the joy on our faces that comes only from You. Lord, even when we begin to move more slowly, let us still move for You.

May we gladly do Your will until our last breath.

So long as we are on this earth, let us live according to Your purpose, for Your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.