I am 60 years old now. My wife and I have four grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. We are blessed and we are happy. But, all too often I find that I am sleepy sooner than I ever used to become sleepy. Were I able to take an afternoon nap at work, I certainly would. Mind you, I still have plenty of energy, and I ride a bicycle for exercise, but I certainly no longer have the depth of resources that I used to have when I was younger.
So, here are a few verses from Scripture concerning old age:
Isaiah 46:4 (NIV) “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”
Proverbs 16:31 (NIV) “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.”
Leviticus 19:32 “Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly.”
Job 32:7 “Age should speak; advanced years should teach wisdom.”
Isaiah 46:3b-4a “I have created you and cared for you since you were born. I will be your God through all your lifetime, Yes, even when your hair is white with age. I made you and I will care for you.”
Psalms 143:5 I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.
Deut. 32:7a Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations.
Psalms 92:14a they shall still bring forth fruit in old age
Psalms 71:9 Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth.
Psalms 7l: 17-18 Oh 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 showed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.
NIV Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.
Job 12:12 (NASB) Wisdom is with aged men, With long life is understanding.”
s-p says
Blessed birthday! I turn 60 in about 4 months. I’ve ALWAYS wanted to be old ever since I was a child. I’m loving my “hoary head” and the stage of my life. May God grant you many more years, or as many as you can stand. 🙂
Tokah Fang says
I was amazed that you managed to put up any posts at all over Pascha weekend, given how draggy my priest was looking! I’d say you are pretty energetic.
Art Casci says
I am so disappointed. All these years, 35 or so, I thought you were older than me. Now I find out I am older by 2. Now I do feel old. 🙂
Rich says
Nice to see Biblical references concerning aging. One of the blessings that comes with advanced years should be wisdom.