Don't Quit; Finish Well
Because of my relative youthfulness, I can be tempted not to directly address my elders. But God has much to say to them in the Scriptures. I’ve recently been encouraged and inspired by the sweet example of Juanita Cruse, who after a long and difficult life, finished life by dying well and going to meet her Savior with eager expectation. Here are some truths to the elderly from observation and from Psalm 71.
Others Are Watching. You are a model and example to others whether you like it or realize it. Show others how to live well. Make the most of your later years, don't waste them. God is watching. Your life is not your own, God has bought you with His own son. Live so others hear and see the glory of God in you.
Psalm 71:18—So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come.
Don't Isolate Yourself. Don’t Quit. If you can make it to a group breakfast or a hairdresser appointment, you can make it to church. If you are able to get out of your house, do it daily or you will lose the ability. If you are able to roll down the hall of the nursing home, get to the meals and social events. If you are able to pick up your phone, call someone every day. As much as you are able, push yourself to be involved and in relationships. Don't quit on God. Don’t quit on life. Don't quit on others.
Don't Be Grumpy. Too many elderly thrive on complaining and gossip. Don't. As hard and painful as aging is, it is not an excuse for negativity. Whining and backbiting is a sin against God and you will have to answer to Him for it. Instead, encourage and be positive. Be thankful and grateful to Jesus for your many blessings. Looks for ways to build up and motivate. Be the kind of person others want to be around instead of being the negative one people are actively avoiding. Recognize that your own preferences differ from others and don't major in minors.
Psalm 71:8—My mouth is filled with your praise, and with your glory all the day.
Invest. Be intentionally active and don't default to being naturally passive. You have limited energy in every day, make the most of it. Don't waste your life. Start and finish your day in the Word and in prayer. Pass on your legacy to others. Write cards. Learn how to text message or venture onto Facebook, or however to best connect with the next generation. Be remembered. Simplify your life. Prioritize how you spend your remaining days so that you live without regrets.
Psalm 71:19—Your righteousness, O God, reaches the high heavens. You who have done great things, O God, who is like you?
Be or stay humble. Just because your are older than others doesn’t necessarily mean you are right. Just because you have lived a long time doesn't automatically give your the right to spout your self-righteous opinion to others with automatic authority. You have a lot to offer and share, but share and speak wisely. Check yourself daily through reading the Bible. A Bible in hand coupled with a gentle tone and humble spirit goes a long way to sharing and spreading wisdom.
Psalm 71:20—You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again; from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again.
Treasure God. Grow spiritually more healthy and vibrant. Love Jesus more than your health, more than your retirement, more than your family, more than yourself. He will be with you to the very end and forever. Stay faithful to Jesus.
