Sorry if that question sounds like a downer. Actually, getting older is not bad…considering the alternative!

In my nearly eight decades on this planet, I’ve come to realize there are changes as we get older. Sometimes dramatic changes. Sometimes subtle changes. But change is inevitable. I have often acknowledged that I am a lot younger from the neck up than I am from the neck down.

I recently came across some thoughts from longtime pastor, author, broadcaster, and spiritual leader David Jeremiah. Now in his eighties and still pastoring, Dr. Jeremiah has some suggestions for how to live effectively and keep going as you get older.

  1. Stay holy.
  2. Stay healthy (take care of your body).
  3. Stay humble.
  4. Stay hungry (keep learning).

Let me take these a bit out of order.

Staying healthy means taking care of your body. Yes, good eating and regular exercise are important. But what is right for those areas when you are in your thirties or forties may not be the same as when you are in your sixties and seventies. It also means not avoiding regular checkups with physicians and other medical folks. I recently told my primary care doctor it was his job to keep me on the road on my frequent international trips.

In writing to his friend Gaius, the Apostle John linked physical health to spiritual health. Both are important.

Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit.

3 John 1:2 NLT

Staying hungry is part of being a lifelong learner. Never stop your education. Read. Attend events that grow your understanding of today’s world. Even Google can be a source of education if used properly. Stay curious and up to date on technology and events around you. The Psalmist put high value on learning.

I believe in your commands;
now teach me good judgment and knowledge.

Psalm 119:66 NLT

Staying humble may be more challenging for some. There are people around you who will follow you and look up to you. Some will praise you and try to give you accolades and honor. Be careful how you accept these things. Remember, all that you have, know, and are comes from the Lord. It is His grace that allows you to achieve anything of worth. Paul listed humility among the important traits of God’s chosen children.

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Colossians 3:12 NLT

Staying holy. I saved this for last because it is an area that requires daily effort in my life. And it is not a suggestion. It is a command from the Lord. Simple. Straight forward. Peter underscored that for those who follow Christ.

But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.”

1 Peter 1:15-16 NLT

Growing older? Remember to stay holy, healthy, humble, and hungry. Then, see what the Lord will do in your life.

God’s best,