Another Birthday

I'm not old—yet—but the new calendar every year tells me that I'm getting there. Here is my thought for today and the year that follows:

Some people have a subtle prejudice against those who are aging, even their very own selves! God, however, is no respecter of persons, not giving consideration to those characteristics that are only temporary and changing. In fact, His Word speaks strong words of encouragement to those who have added some years of experience to their faith.

"O God, you have taught me from my earliest childhood, and I constantly tell others about the wonderful things you do. Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me. (Psalm 71:17, 18)

“Listen to me, descendants of Jacob, all you who remain in Israel. [God is speaking to us, as we are adoptees in this family.] I have cared for you since you were born. Yes, I carried you before you were born. I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. (Isaiah 46:3, 4)

"The godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted to the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. They will declare, “The Lord is just! He is my rock! There is no evil in him!” (Psalm 92:12-15)

In the Old Testament history, we are told of several people who lived to "a good old age." The accounts say that they were "full of days," or "full of years"; life was complete for them. None of us can say exactly what "full of years" will mean for us—a great many years for some and fewer for others—but however many it is, God will make it complete for us. I especially like the description of Abraham who died happy at a ripe old age, having lived a long and satisfying life. Can another birthday be such a bad thing to happen to me?

MaryMartha

Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. United States of America. All rights reserved.