Embracing Wisdom as We Grow Older How can we gain wisdom through the aging process? September 25th, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minute

 

Embracing Wisdom as We Grow Older

How can we gain wisdom through the aging process?

September 25th, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

Aging is inevitable, but growing wise as we age is a choice. As the years pass, our bodies may weaken, and our minds may slow, but the opportunity to gain godly wisdom increases with each season of life. The Bible speaks highly of those who are wise and reminds us that true wisdom is not just about accumulating knowledge, but about living a life that reflects the fear of the Lord and faith in His Word.

How, then, do we make sure that as we grow old, we are also growing wise?

Wisdom Begins with the Fear of the Lord

The foundation of wisdom is laid when we understand the proper relationship between ourselves and God. Proverbs 9:10 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” This “fear” is not about being scared of God, but having a deep reverence for His holiness, power, and authority.

As we age, we are given the privilege of witnessing God's faithfulness through the various seasons of life. Those who have walked with the Lord for decades can often attest to the truth of Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Wisdom develops as we live out this trust, learning to rely on God's ways rather than our own.

Learning from Life’s Experiences

Wisdom doesn’t come automatically with age, but it is often cultivated through life’s experiences both good and bad. Psalm 90:12 asks, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” This verse reminds us that wisdom comes when we reflect on our lives and realize that each day is a gift from God, full of opportunities to grow closer to Him.

One of the benefits of growing older is that we gain a longer view of life. We see the patterns of God’s faithfulness, how He has led us through trials and triumphs alike. These experiences, when paired with faith, allow us to gain perspective and insight that only time can offer.

Statistics support the connection between experience and wisdom. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Gerontology found that older adults who frequently reflected on their life experiences reported higher levels of wisdom and life satisfaction. This research highlights the value of looking back over life’s journey to glean lessons and insights that can guide future decisions.

Humility and Teachability: Key to Growing Wise

As we grow older, it can be tempting to think we’ve "arrived" or that we no longer need to learn. However, wisdom is often found in humility. Proverbs 11:2 teaches, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Humility allows us to admit that no matter our age, we always have more to learn about God and His ways.

Teachability is another vital trait for growing wise. Regardless of how old we are, God continues to work on our hearts, shaping us into the likeness of Christ. The wise recognize that spiritual growth is a lifelong process. James 1:5 reminds us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” There’s no shame in asking God for wisdom, even in our later years. In fact, it’s a mark of maturity to seek wisdom from the ultimate source—God Himself.

Passing Wisdom to the Next Generation

One of the great joys of growing wise with age is the opportunity to pass that wisdom on to the next generation. Psalm 71:18 expresses this beautifully: “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.”

Sharing our experiences, lessons, and godly counsel with younger generations is a biblical responsibility. The wisdom that comes from a life lived in Christ is invaluable to those who are just beginning their walk with Him. In a world that often celebrates youth and innovation over the value of experience, the church has a unique role in honoring and learning from its older members.

A 2019 Pew Research study found that 61% of American adults said they often turned to older family members for advice and wisdom on major life decisions. This shows that younger generations are seeking out the knowledge and experience of their elders. As believers, we should seize every opportunity to pass on the wisdom God has given us.

Enduring in Faith as We Grow Old

Perhaps one of the most powerful aspects of growing wise as we age is our ability to endure in faith. The longer we walk with Christ, the more opportunities we have to experience His grace and mercy in our lives. Isaiah 46:4 reassures us, “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.”

There’s a unique strength found in those who have spent years relying on God’s faithfulness. As we age, our bodies may weaken, but our spiritual strength has the potential to grow. The wisdom that comes from enduring trials, trusting in God’s promises, and leaning on Him through every season of life is a gift that deepens with time.

Conclusion: Pursue Wisdom for the Glory of God

Growing old is a blessing, and with it comes the opportunity to grow wise if we choose to pursue wisdom in humility, reverence, and faith. Wisdom is not about accumulating facts or experiences for our own sake, but about glorifying God and serving others as we live out the gospel.

As we age, we have the privilege of drawing closer to God and sharing His wisdom with those around us. May we embrace each year as a chance to grow in godliness, becoming examples of faith, wisdom, and love for the next generation.

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