Devotionals

Senior Saints, How to Be Influential

by Dale Buchanan 
05/29/26
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#15 in “Blessing for Senior Saints” series

 “That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things,” (Titus 2:2-3 KJV).

Grumpy old men and women: the perfect turnoff for potential followers. Then there is the elderly person who is always trying to “straighten people out.”  I once attended a funeral in which testimonials of influence were given.  “She was a good person, but had a very sharp, critical tongue.”  Knowing that situation, I knew that she had driven many people away from herself. I once read a suggested prayer for the elderly to pray: “Release me from the craving to straighten out other people’s affairs.”

You can only help others if they are receptive to your influence.  Usually, you will know if they are receptive if they ask for your counsel. 

Your counsel will only be desired if observers see that you are demonstrating a godly life.  Paul gives some good counsel for aged people in Titus 2.  Although character traits are given separately for men and women, the type of godly behavior described is good for both men and women.  The admonition might be summarized like this: Practice what you preach.  Observers will know if you don’t. If you live the life, you can influence the young in faith and the young in age to live for the Lord.

If you are “up in age,” strive to be a good example to influence others toward Christ and godliness. God has given you a ministry.  Keep on keeping on.