FINISHING STRONG
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. Isaiah 46:4.
As I write this devotion, we as a country are dealing with the death of a beloved lady – Betty White. I don’t know what Betty’s spiritual condition was, but she certainly fits the term of “finishing strong”. Betty died just a couple of weeks shy of her 100th birthday. She was loved and admired by a multitude of folks.
I can’t even wrap my mind around being 99 years old. Old age! When I was 30, what did I think I would be like at the age I am today? I’ve got all of the gray hairs, wrinkles and sagging places. Plus, I am finding that I forget lots of stuff. I assumed that all of this would be true. So, I’m not surprised. But what about my spiritual condition? It’s a bit disheartening to realize that chronological maturity doesn’t automatically produce spiritual maturity. I had hoped that by this stage of life, I would have become much more like Jesus, I would have learned volumes from my life experiences, and would have mastered more Christ-like qualities. Instead, I still continue to struggle. I still forget to trust Him. I still give in to selfishness far too often.
The longer I live the more aware I am of the ways I fall short. But isn’t it wonderful to know that I’m not alone as I struggle to grow! Jesus knows that no matter how long we’ve followed Him, our old nature continues to give us trouble – and it will continue as long as we’re on this earth. We need His Word for daily reminders about how to follow Him. We need worship to direct our attention away from ourselves. We need fellowship to give accountability and encouragement. We never stop learning, practicing and growing.
Whatever our age, Jesus gives each day meaning and purpose. He promises to help us finish strong.
Dear God, guide us as we continue on this journey down here – however long that may be. We look forward to seeing you at our life’s finish line…welcoming us home. Amen.
Pastor Ruth
