Getting old is difficult. Energy, bodily organ functions,
and attention span all diminish; while aches and pains, pill intake and doctor
bills all increase. We get discouraged, lose self-esteem and feel useless in so
many areas.
Eventually, we even have to cut back on our energy outgo;
limiting our activities to one major event a day. Many are required to give up
the keys to the car, join a geriatrics exercise program and get more sleep with
less productivity.
God knew, before the day we were born, that we would grow old
(Ephesians 2:10). He has plans for us, which includes this time in our life
(Jeremiah 29:11). We do not need to confine our self to the rocking chair on
the front porch - although that is fun sometimes too.
We just change our focus and keep a positive attitude. We
keep walking in the Spirit and continue to fulfill the will of God for each
moment of our life. We exchange youthful ministries for the equally as
important ministry of prayer and mentoring (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Titus 2:4).
Sitting at Jesus' feet, we worship Him by singing and
praying the scripture. We lift up the needs of our fellow Saints and family
members, the church's pastor and staff and the ministry leaders and volunteers,
the world and its leaders, the persecuted church and the unreached people
groups.
Another way to minister is by writing a blog, emailing,
fellowshiping on social media and private messages and texts. This way, we can
communicate and minister all over the country and the world.
God teaches us to set boundaries around our time; to take
a day off; to enjoy time in nature, at the pool or walking on trails each day;
to play with our pets; to write letters and books and to make cards to brighten
someone's day; to bake a pie or a dozen cookies to share with the neighborhood
kids after school - all in His name and all for His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Prayer:
Father God, when we are drained, worn and weary from
life, we are still Yours with a unique calling on our life. Remind us that
until our dying breath, You call us to seek You and to walk in Your perfect
plan for us by Your Spirit. We surrender all to You and worship You with all of
our thoughts, words and deeds.
Remind us that the girl checking us out at the grocery,
the waitress, the retail clerk, the person next to us on the bus or airplane, the
librarian, etc. all need us to recognize them as a person too, and to tell them
that You and we really care about them. Let Your light shine in us so brightly
that everyone will see our good works and give You the glory (Matthew 5:16).
Thought for the Day:
God uses us in so many ways, regardless of our age,
energy level, health issues and physical limitations, to share His wisdom, ways
and wonders with those He brings into our life.
