*Biblical insights* *You shall rise before the gray headed and honor the presence of an old man, and fear your God: I am the Lord. — Leviticus 19:32* * God’s laws include prohibitions against disrespecting the elderly. The “gray headed” and the “old man” are to be treated with honor and respect. * The Bible commands respect for one’s elders, who have much to teach from their vast experience. *Moses was one hundred and twenty years old when he died. His eyes were not dim nor his natural vigor diminished. — Deuteronomy 34:7* * Our generation tends to emphasize the importance of youth, but God uses servants of all ages. * Age does not limit God’s ability to work through people. As long as we have breath, we should be serving God. *And now, behold, the Lord has kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years, ever since the Lord spoke this word to Moses while Israel wandered in the wilderness; and now, here I am this day, eighty-five years old. — Joshua 14:10* * The Bible identifies the key to Caleb’s lifelong health, vitality, and special favor with God. He “wholly followed the Lord” (Joshua 14:8). * Caleb is a wonderful model for the proposition that a faithful life—one that perseveres through every trial and hardship—is rewarded with blessings in old age. *Lord, make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days, that I may know how frail I am. Indeed, You have made my days as handbreadths, and my age is as nothing before You; certainly every man at his best state is but vapor.— Psalm 39:4-5* * People’s lifetimes are but a small measure in the hand of God; it is “as nothing” to Him, like a raindrop in the ocean. * One of the great challenges of aging is to understand that, while time is passing, God is working through us to make a difference in the world. * No matter what our age, we must use our time wisely, fully, actively, and selflessly, giving thanks for each new day and seeking how God would have us serve Him. *Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength fails. — Psalm 71:9* * Older people often feel that because they lack their youthful vigor, they cannot effectively serve God. God says, however, that His people “shall still bear fruit in old age” (Psalm 92:14). * Older believers have a lifetime of wisdom and experience that are valuable to younger people. Believers can and should continue to grow spiritually even in their twilight time. They can continue to make a difference for God, helping build His kingdom. * Young people must not dismiss older people; instead, they should look to their elders for the godly wisdom they have from years of knowing Christ. *Prayer starter* Dear Lord, thank You for the life of ___. Please reveal to us through Your Holy Spirit what should be done next. Give us wisdom and kindness. Help us to see all the options, and lead us in the direction we should go that will be best for all involved . . .