Growing Old Gracefully

Posted on October 24, 2022 by Elizabeth Welte in Freedom Fighters

I realize every day that I am now getting old! LOL! My friend Russ just celebrated his 93rd birthday last week, making me feel really young.

At a Hymn Sing several years ago, we had a man celebrate his 105th birthday. He looked like he could have been in his 70’s. That same day a lady was celebrating her 101st birthday. He asked me to take him to her table so they could meet, and maybe he would ask her out on a date. After meeting her, he said, “I’m not interested, and she has too many problems.”

Our society wants to get rid of older people. There are young leaders in church leadership who find seniors a nuisance. But the reality is the older generation continues to be one of the largest segments of our population – also known as the “Boomers.”

Yesterday I attended my 50th High School Reunion, and as I looked at folks from my class on Facebook, I found myself saying, “Shoot – he or she looks ancient. Do I look THAT old?”

The bottom line is that I have seen some pretty grumpy old people (and I have seen some younger people who are even grumpier), and I really don’t want to be like that as I age.

 

I want to share some verses about age that are good reminders:

“Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green.” Psalm 92:14

“With a long life I will satisfy him and let him see My salvation.” Psalm 91:16

“And now, in my old age, don’t set me aside. Don’t forsake me now when my strength is failing.” Psalm 71:9

“But those who keep waiting for the Lord will renew their strength. Then they’ll soar on wings like eagles; they’ll run and not grow weary; they’ll walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

“Wisdom belongs to the aged, and understanding to the old.” Job 12:12

“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is obtained by following a righteous path.” Proverbs 16:31

“The glory of the young is their strength; the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old.” Proverbs 20:29

“Now that I am old and my hair is gray, don’t leave me, God. I must tell the next generation about your power and greatness. God, your goodness reaches far above the skies. You have done wonderful things. God, there is no one like you.” Psalm 71:18-19

 

I came across this prayer which I am going to pray on a regular basis:

“A Prayer for Growing Old Gracefully”

Lord, Thou knowest better than I myself that I am growing older and will someday be old.

 Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something on every subject and on every occasion. Release me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs.

Make me thoughtful but not moody; helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity not to use it all; but Thou knowest, Lord, that I want a few friends at the end.

Keep my mind free from the recital of endless details; give me wings to get to the point.

Seal my lips on my aches and pains; they are increasing, and love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by.

I dare not ask for improved memory, but for a growing humility and a lessening cock-sureness when my memory seems to clash with the memories of others.

Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally I may be mistaken. Keep me reasonably sweet, for a sour old person is one of the crowning works of the devil.

Give me the ability to see good things in unexpected places and talents in unexpected people; and give, O Lord, the grace to tell them so.

Undivided: By Christ, in Christ, for Christ:

Bill Welte, President/CEO
America’s Keswick

Bill would love to hear from you: bwelte@americaskeswick.org.

 

Written by Bill Welte: President/CEO of America’s Keswick: Bill has been married to his childhood sweetheart for 40+ years and has four married kids and 12 amazing grandkids. He loves music and is an avid reader.


Think About This: “Outside of Christ, every man has an evil heart. So, we need an inward change of the heart, a dramatic turning around of our desires and motivations.” – Ronald Boon

The Daily Bible Reading: Jeremiah 11-13; 1 Timothy 4 You can download our 2022 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here. 

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.” -1 Corinthians 12:26-27

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