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AGING WELL

What Is God’s Heart on Aging?

“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature”  James 1:4

Aging is a process of growing physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually in order to move toward maturity.

God’s purpose in the process of aging is to bring us to spiritual maturity by deepening our faith and developing our dependence on the Lord—on the presence of Christ within us. God’s intention is that we “become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).

“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature”  James 1:4

Maturity in the New Testament is translated from the Greek word teleios, which means “complete” or “growth in mental and moral character.”

“But solid food is for the mature”  Hebrews 5:14

We take stock of our remaining resources (time, talents, treasures) and look for ways to invest them in people and projects that hold lasting meaning.

Aging is often viewed as a natural part of life and according to God's Word, it is also a gift, an opportunity to grow in wisdom, reflect on His faithfulness, and fulfill the purpose He has for us in this season of life. While the physical effects of aging can feel daunting at times, the Bible offers a perspective that encourages us to embrace aging as a part of God's plan, trusting Him for strength and grace as we grow older.

Aging is a Gift from God

In Scripture, God regularly affirms that the years He gives us are a precious gift. While the Bible doesn't promise that everyone will live to a ripe old age, it consistently reminds us that our lives and the time we are given are under His control. God gives life, sustains us, and holds our days in His hands.

Scripture:

  • "He will give you many years." (Deuteronomy 30:20)
  • "With long life I will satisfy him." (Psalm 91:16)

These verses speak to God's faithfulness in granting us life and the assurance that He is the one who sustains us each day. The truth here is not about living to 100, but about recognizing that every day, every year is a gift from God.

Aging Offers Opportunities for Reflection and Wisdom

As we grow older, we are given the chance to look back on God's faithfulness in our lives. The experiences and challenges of life often result in greater wisdom and understanding of God’s character and His workings. Aging allows us to reflect on His goodness and to pass on that wisdom to younger generations. The Bible encourages us to use the time we have wisely, knowing that we are called to be good stewards of all the years God has given us.

Scripture:

  • "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time." (Ephesians 5:15–16, ESV)

Aging can be a time to mature in our relationship with Christ and to grow in wisdom, becoming more attuned to His calling for our lives, regardless of our age.

God Will Sustain Us in Our Later Years

As we age, we can sometimes become fearful or anxious about the future—our health, our purpose, and what lies ahead. But God promises to be with us through every stage of life, providing strength, comfort, and the assurance that He will sustain us, no matter our age.

Scripture:

  • "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." (Isaiah 46:4)

God doesn’t abandon us as we grow older. In fact, He promises to carry us and sustain us, providing for us both physically and spiritually as we age. We can trust that our lives are in His hands, no matter how much time has passed.

Trust in God’s Timing

Aging often causes us to confront the brevity of life.  God’s Word reminds us that our times are in His hands, and He has a purpose for each season of life, including the later years. As we grow older, we can trust in His sovereign plan, knowing that He has a purpose for the time He gives us.

Scripture:

  • "I trust in you, Lord; I say, ‘You are my God.’ My times are in your hands." (Psalm 31:14–15)

Even as our physical strength may fade, we are called to trust that God has a plan for every day, every season, and that His timing is perfect.

Rest in God’s Promises

As we grow older, it can be easy to become anxious about the future or fearful of what might happen. But God invites us to find rest in Him—rest from fear, anxiety, and the pressures of life. He is our rock and salvation, providing peace that transcends circumstances.

Scripture:

  • "Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken." (Psalm 62:1–2)

Aging is a time to deepen our trust in God and to rest in His promises—His protection, His provision, and the salvation He offers.

Live Without Fear and Be Strengthened by God’s Presence

God’s presence is a source of strength and comfort, especially as we face the challenges that come with aging. God encourages us not to fear the future, but to rely on His strength and to be comforted by His nearness.

Scripture:

  • "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

God assures us that His presence will provide us with the courage and strength we need, no matter our age.

Reflect on God’s Faithfulness in the Past

As we age, it’s natural to look back on the years that have passed. God calls us to remember the ways He has worked in our lives, His faithfulness, and the ways He has guided and provided for us. Reflecting on His deeds in the past strengthens our faith for the future.

Scripture:

  • "I will remember the deeds of the Lord." (Psalm 77:11)

Looking back and remembering God’s faithfulness not only brings comfort, but it also encourages us to trust Him in the present and future.

Pursue Full Maturity in Christ

Aging is not only about physical changes but also about spiritual growth. God’s desire for us is to grow into the full maturity that comes through a deep relationship with Christ. No matter our age, we are called to pursue spiritual maturity, to know Christ more deeply, and to live out His purpose for our lives.

Scripture:

  • "He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ." (Colossians 1:28)

Even in our later years, God calls us to continue growing in Him, becoming fully mature in Christ.

Aging is not something to fear, but a gift from God that offers opportunities for growth, reflection, and deepening our relationship with Him. As we age, we are invited to rest in God’s promises, trust in His timing, reflect on His faithfulness, and continue growing spiritually. Our lives, from beginning to end, are in God’s hands, and as we grow older, we can be confident that He will sustain us, guide us, and use us for His purposes. Let us embrace this season of life with wisdom, grace, and trust in His unchanging love.

What Causes an Aversion to Aging?

In the Bible, while the specific concept of "aging aversion" isn't explicitly mentioned, there are several principles and truths that speak to why some people might develop negative feelings or resistance to growing older. These feelings can often be rooted in our cultural views, insecurities, and misunderstandings about aging, which can influence how we perceive the process of getting older.

Here are a few key factors, supported by biblical perspectives, that may contribute to an aversion to aging:

Fear of Loss (Health, Strength, Independence)

As people age, they may experience a fear of losing their physical health, strength, or independence. The Bible acknowledges that physical decline is a part of life, but it also reassures us that our worth is not found in our physical bodies. There is a tendency in society to emphasize youth and beauty, which can make the aging process feel like a loss of value.

God’s Word:

  • “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.” (Isaiah 46:4, NIV)
  • “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10, NIV)

These verses remind us that God’s strength is not dependent on our physical strength, and He will sustain us through every season of life, including our later years.

Fear of Irrelevance or Invisibility

Another cause of aversion to aging is the fear of becoming irrelevant or invisible in society. As we age, we may feel like our contributions no longer matter, or that younger generations have more to offer. The Bible teaches that every stage of life is meaningful, and we are still valuable in God's sight at every age.

God’s Word:

  • “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.” (Psalm 92:12–14, NIV)
  • “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.” (Proverbs 16:31, NIV)

These verses highlight that even in old age, God still has a purpose for our lives, and we continue to bear fruit as we follow Him. Age doesn’t diminish our worth or our role in God’s kingdom.

Cultural Value on Youth and Appearance

In many societies, youth is highly prized, and beauty is often associated with physical appearance. Aging can be perceived as a loss of beauty and vitality, which leads to an aversion to getting older. The Bible, however, encourages us to focus on inner beauty and godliness rather than outward appearances.

God’s Word:

  • “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” (1 Peter 3:3–4, NIV)
  • “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” (Proverbs 31:30, NIV)

These verses remind us that true beauty is found in our character and our relationship with God, not in the fleeting aspects of physical appearance. As we age, our spiritual beauty can grow even more radiant.

The Desire for Control and Fear of Mortality

Aging is a reminder that we cannot control everything about our lives, and it brings us face to face with the reality of our mortality. Fear of death or the unknown can contribute to an aversion to aging. However, the Bible assures us that our lives are in God's hands, and we do not need to fear death, for He has conquered it through Jesus Christ.

God’s Word:

  • “The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” (Psalm 90:10, KJV)
  • “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21, NIV)

God calls us to embrace the fullness of life, regardless of how long we live, and to view death not as a defeat but as a victory in Christ. The focus should be on living purposefully, no matter our age.

Fear of Being Forgotten or Left Behind

Some may feel that as they age, they will be forgotten by others or left behind in an ever-changing world. This fear can be painful, as the world moves quickly and can seem to value new ideas, trends, and innovation. Yet, the Bible assures us that God never forgets us, and He has a plan for each season of our lives.

God’s Word:

  • “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!” (Isaiah 49:15, NIV)
  • “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.” (Jeremiah 31:3, NIV)

God's love is constant, and He does not forget us. Even in aging, we remain His beloved children, and He has an eternal purpose for our lives.

While the Bible doesn’t directly address the aversion to aging in modern terms, it does provide us with the wisdom and perspective needed to view aging in a healthy, God-honoring way. Aging is not to be feared but embraced as a part of God's good plan. Our identity and value are rooted in our relationship with God, and every stage of life is an opportunity to grow closer to Him and fulfill His purpose for us. The aging process may bring physical change, but it can also bring spiritual depth, wisdom, and a deeper experience of God's faithfulness.

God’s Word encourages us to view aging through His lens—where every age is a blessing, and the best is always yet to come as we anticipate eternal life with Him.

Key Verse to Learn 

“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.”   (Isaiah 46:4) 

 

Key Passage to Read 

2 Corinthians 4:17–5:10

 

God will never leave you.

No matter what.

Let’s hold on to God’s promise of joy! 

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