Aging Gracefully in a Youth-Obsessed World

Did you know the world’s older population is growing at an unprecedented rate?

And some day you, too, will be included in that number?

Getting Older

At 56-years-of-age, I can personally acknowledge that aging gracefully in a youth-obsessed world can be a little daunting.

We’re bombarded daily through the various communication venues with advertisements on everything from hair dyes to cover the gray — to Botox to minimize the wrinkles — to elective cosmetic surgery to whittle down our waistlines.

The list goes on and on…ad nauseam.

The Bible tells us that gray hair is something to be cherished, not something to be hidden or to be ashamed.

“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.” 

— Proverbs 16:31 (NIV)*

However, by our culture’s standards, it seems we must do anything we can to remain forever young.

But is this how God wants us to spend our time?

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…”

 — Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)

In this verse, Solomon is reminding us that there is a “season” for everything.

In the different seasons of life, God values us as His people. He also tells us in His word that He does not look on the outward appearance, but the heart (1 Samuel 16:7, NIV).

While it’s positive to take care of our bodies to serve God to our fullest capacity, the key is balance.

It’s important that we not overemphasize the superficial and neglect our spiritual lives.

Our present bodies are not intended to last forever, but while we may have to curtail certain activities as we age, we can still lead satisfying and fruitful lives.

Scripture states, “They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and green” (Psalm 92:14, NIV).

Valued as a Person

I grew up in a time where grandparents sometimes lived in the home as part of the extended family. That’s not a popular option these days, but as a kid growing up, it was more the norm.

Before “Grandpa” moved in with us, I remember my mother instructing my five siblings and me that we would have to keep the noise level down so as not to disturb him.

The first day Grandpa moved in, we all laughed when we heard opera music coming from the radio in his room that was so loud the walls seemed to vibrate.

Grandpa’s zest for life was infectious. And he had this uncanny ability to make work seem like fun.

Whether it was picking up rocks from a potential garden spot, picking beans, or tinkering on his red corvair, he was always upbeat and positive.

Grandpa was also a deeply religious man, a devout Christian, and He had tremendous wisdom.

His value as a person and as a grandfather was demonstrated daily through his love for God, love for others, zeal for learning, and sharing of wisdom on a daily basis with his grandchildren.

“Is not wisdom found among the aged?
Does not long life bring understanding?”

— Job 12:12 (NIV)

Growing Wiser with Age

Mature christians can still produce spiritual fruit. The passage of time provides us with many life lessons and experiences of personal growth.

It is through these experiences that we can impart the wisdom of God’s eternal presence and power to our children, grandchildren, and friends.

Examples include life’s lessons and experiences on love, relationships, marriage, raising children, business, and the importance of financial planning.

Navigating the Later Years with Grace

Growing older does come with the stark reality of our mortality. However, we have this assurance from God:

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” 

— Isaiah 46:4 (NIV)

In the article, “Growing Old Gracefully,” by Graemme Marshall, he states:

“It is important to keep a positive, even humorous, perspective on aging, because God designed our bodies to age. It’s not the act of a vengeful God, but of a loving God. And God wants us to continue to bear fruit.“

Sharing with the next generation our knowledge, wisdom, and perspective is important as we age.

Young people willing to listen may discover the collective wisdom of their aging relatives much more wise than the conventional wisdom espoused by culture.

In fact, their roadmap to true happiness may depend on it.

And choosing to listen to their elders?

It shows wisdom beyond their years.

*Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.®Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.