Devotionals

Purpose for Living in Old Age

by Dale Buchanan 
08/14/26
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#23 in “Blessing for Senior Saints” series

“O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.   Now also when I am old and grayheaded, 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 71:17-18 KJV)

 Stemming from a rich life of learning from THE WORD and service to the Lord, the Psalmist expresses a desire and a prayer.  He is now old and gray headed, but he is not quitting. He still desires God’s presence (forsake me not), and still wants to fulfil his goal – which also coincides with God’s plan for him, and for every aging Christian. 

 What is God’s purpose for my life now that I am old? To show God’s strength to the current generation and to exhibit God’s power for future generations.   There is no testimony quite so compelling as a faithful, elderly Christian who keeps on keeping on to the best of his physical abilities.

 Look around.  There are younger relatives and other younger folks who know you well. They could use a good example of how God gives you strength to keep honoring the Lord, to be cheerful, and to trust the Lord during adversity.  Demonstrate God’s power to use you as a witness and as an encourager of others.  Use your wealth of Bible knowledge and practical Christian experience to teach younger Christians how to study the Word and how to serve. 

God is not done with you.  Your goal is to show younger Christians God’s strength and power.  What are you waiting for? Align yourself with God’s purpose for you.