Aging Faithfully

Psalm 71

Aging Faithfully

Mike Chibbaro

The psalmist has a long, tenured relationship with God, and he is able to draw upon a wellspring of memories of God’s faithfulness during a hard time. As we age, we also gain a deeper appreciation of God’s mercy and kindness, which we can in turn pass on to the next generation through prayer, encouragement, and example.

Application

  1. The psalmist is clear that God is a place of safety. When reality gets hard, where do you tend to run for safety or escape? Do those places provide true shelter or an illusion?

  2. This passage offers wisdom for both the young and old. Which season are you in right now? What steps can you take to invest in a life of obedience so you can impact the next generation?

Key Points

  • Small steps of faith lead to a bigger, more robust faith. Then, in times of trial, we can have confidence in God’s deliverance.

  • A lifetime of obedience becomes a display of God’s faithfulness to future generations.

  • Older people should make themselves available to drive intergenerational ministry through prayer and encouragement.

  • Younger generations should seek wisdom from their elders and be willing to submit to their authority.

  • The hope of the resurrection can calm our fears and energize us to spiritual passion, even in the final season of life.

  • Second-half success is built through first-half obedience and discipline.

Other Scripture References

Ecclesiastes 12

Titus 2

Revelation 2
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