Introductory Thoughts
Life is cyclical. Many of the physical challenges experienced by young children will once again be encountered by those who live long enough. As a person ages, many things taken for granted long ago in the prime of life begin to deteriorate. For instance, the Bible says that Israel’s eyes “were dim for age” (Genesis 48:10), Barzillai’s hearing and taste buds were ill affected (2 Samuel 19:34-35), and David “gat no heat” (1 Kings 1:1) as he grew old. For these reasons and others, the Bible emphasizes that aged saints are “old and well stricken in age” (Genesis 18:11). In other words, the passing of time or the coming of age strikes the physical well-being of the body and its physical and mental functions. This physical and mental degeneration is the fulfillment of the cycle of life as the body prepares to return to the dust from whence it originally came (Ecclesiastes 12:7).
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): As our bodies grow older, we may not be able to effectively or efficiently do everything we once did. This includes driving a car, mowing the grass, chopping down trees, climbing steps, cleaning house, standing and cooking, etc, etc. Aging resulted from Adam and Eves sin (Genesis 2:17; Genesis 3:19). For this reason and others, it is important to work while you can. Fortunately, our bodies in heaven will be perfect (1 Corinthians 15:51-53).
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(For everyone): Why is it so very important that people of all ages consider the implications of old age? How should this knowledge and understanding change the way we live each day of our lives?
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What are some of the things that the youngest children deal with that older individuals may also have to endure? How can this reflect the cycle of life?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to help you use each day to its fullest.
- Thank God for the abilities He has given you today.
Song
JUST WHEN I NEED HIM MOST
