MODELS OF IMPACT IN OLD AGE (1)

“They shall still BEAR FRUIT in OLD AGE; they shall be fresh and flourishing” – Psalm 92:14

Besides the focus on youths, the Bible is also rich on MODELS of IMPACT in OLD AGE: “They shall still BEAR FRUIT in OLD AGE; they shall be fresh and flourishing, to declare that the Lord is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him” (Psa.92:14-15). The English Standard Version says, “…they are ever full of sap and green” (v.14b). This scripture passage suggests that the righteous can still produce fruit in old age, indicating continued purpose and impact. Scriptures emphasize both the positive (potential wisdom) and the negative (physical decline) – perspectives to old age, while highlighting God’s continued faithfulness and purpose for individuals in their later years. We are never too old to make Impact!

Positive aspects of aging include: Wisdom and understanding; fruitfulness; spiritual growth; guidance for younger generations; and God’s sustaining Power. Proverbs 16:31 says, “The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.” Job 12:12 affirms: “Wisdom is with aged men, and with length of days, understanding.” Isaiah 46:4 proclaims God’s promise to sustain and carry His own through old age: “Even to your old age, I am He, and even to gray hairs I will carry you! I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.” God actually promises to satisfy us with long life and salvation (Psa.91:16). Why? Titus 2:2-5 emphasize the role of older Believers in mentoring and instructing younger people.

Challenges of old age typically include: Physical decline due to wear and tear of aging which can lead to discouragement; loos of strength and fear of being forgotten or forsaken (Psa.71:9); and the reality of mortality – the “days of trouble” (Ecc.12:1). However, 2 Corinthians 4:16 describes an inner renewal that can occur even as the outward body ages. Moreover, God’s faithfulness and purpose extend to all ages, including and especially old age. The Bible presents individuals, who despite their advanced years, continued to make significant contributions and serve as examples of faithfulness, wisdom, and service.

Among the Biblical Models of Impact in Old Age are: Abraham, Patriarch of Faith, who demonstrated unwavering faith in God’s promises in his old age; Moses, who despite his age and physical limitations, led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness; Calen, who at 85, was still strong and ready to conquer the land, demonstrating faith and courage; Anna, the prophetess who actively served God in the temple, awaiting the Messiah’s birth, and recognized Jesus as a baby – a model of continued service and devotion; Simeon, who recognised Jesus as the Messiah in his old age and blessed him. These models prove that old age can be a time of wisdom, renewed strength, faith, fruitfulness, freshness, flourishing, and impact.