Some people have good physical and mental health well into old age, but we are all different, and for many, these latter years can be a struggle. However, there are some advantages to growing older. I am writing to highlight these benefits to the individual and the wider society.
Time to Think
In our busy lives, deep reflection often takes a backseat but taking time to think is crucial for effective decision-making, and certain jobs naturally provide more time for contemplation, such as those that involve long-distance travel. Unfortunately, some people choose to avoid deep thinking about life and continually focus on the day-to-day grind. The Bible encourages both the young and old to consider life’s deeper issues. The wise sage Solomon wrote, "Remember now thy creator in the days of thy youth," and Paul the Apostle said, "Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel," Thinking is not wasted time if it leads to wise decisions and positive actions.
If you have not considered "the God question" or the afterlife, now may be the time to reflect on these matters before it's too late.
Time for Others
Everyone has the same number of hours in a day, but when you're busy, time often seems to slip away. This can be beneficial, especially if you enjoy your work, but it can also mean that those we love most are sidelined and must make sacrifices for us. One of the benefits of aging and slowing down is the opportunity to spend more time with loved ones—or at least to make the time spent with them more meaningful. As you become more aware of life’s brevity, your focus shifts to what truly matters.
Putting Life into Perspective
During my time in business, a common mantra was "work smarter, not harder." This advice was valuable. Limitations, such as time constraints and energy levels, often prompt us to find more efficient ways to accomplish tasks. This innovative thinking allows us to focus on what’s truly significant, helping us put life into perspective. You start to appreciate the "big things" and not get bogged down by life’s trivialities. Jesus encapsulated this idea in monetary terms, saying, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" Eventually, you realize that there is more to life than merely accumulating possessions.
Faith, Hope, and Love
Phrases like "Live, love, laugh," "Seize the day," and "Be the change" have become popular. The Bible also uses three powerful words: faith, hope, and love. These concepts summarize the Bible's message. Evidence points to an all-powerful Creator, God, who made everything and established the rules. Since the beginning of time, humans have often strayed from God. Man introduced sin and evil into the world. The consequences are evident, as suffering, pain, and death have been part of the human experience for millennia. However, God offers hope—through forgiveness, salvation, and the peace that comes through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Bible states that "the Father (God) sent the Son (Jesus) to be the Savior of the world." The biblical definition of hope is something guaranteed to happen in the future, but it only holds significance when an individual trusts what God has revealed in His word (the Bible) — this is the essence of faith. Faith is believing in God's promises and the evidence provided throughout history, in the Bible, and through Jesus Christ. Abraham, the father of faith, believed God and was made right with Him. The result of this faith is that the love of God is poured into our hearts. In a profound way, Christians experience and enjoy the love of God.
Regardless of your age, take time to think about these significant issues; they are the most important considerations in any human life.
All photos courtesy of Unsplash
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