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These daily Christian devotions use everyday objects and events to keep our focus on Christ as we spend time with Him and then continue through our day. A penny shows the value of experience; never think you're too old to be used by God!
My husband loves to find old coins; he has even taught our kids over the years to sort through his loose change looking for coins with old dates! They have learned it’s not necessarily the bright shiny ones that have extra value; it’s usually the dingy, dark ones.
Experience. We tend to neglect its value. Sometimes it’s the scratches and age that prove we have lived, prove we have learned from experience.
“A gray head is a crown of glory; It is found in the way of righteousness.”
Proverbs 16:31
I am continuing to learn as I move further and further into my fifties – there is a lot to be said for being “over-the-hill”! Granted I still like to cover up those gray hairs, but the experience, the wisdom, the growth in Christ, they are worth every little scratch, tarnish, and gray hair. There is value in age.
Last week I was invited to hear a dear elderly man from our church sing at the assisted living center where he lives. ( I almost used the word resides, but he does more than reside there, he still LIVES! ) Surrounded by those with a few more gray hairs than myself, I sensed such wisdom as well as fulfillment. Their lives have been full. Yes, they have aches and pains and take various medications; they have experienced loss and need a little more assistance, but they are also so full of wisdom and life experience.
“Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?”
Job 12:12
Having reached the point of “over the hill” and experiencing these gray hairs, I need to be reminded of this truth. In reality gray hair is proof that we have lived; we have experienced life. We have stories to tell and memories to ponder.
Think of all the things you know – things teachers and books have taught you, stories from reading or watching movies, experiences of life and living!
Look around. Do you see any “gray-haired” folks? Now that the Baby-boomer generation has reached this age, there are quite a few! Each one has so much to offer, to invest in the next generations!
Over 50 has actually become the beginning point, not a stopping point, for many:
These are just a few you may know. Their thoughts, skills and talents continued to make a difference and yours can too! God is not finished with you yet.
The point is – God wants to use all this experience and wisdom He has given you. In reality, as we begin to slow down some physically, it gives us more time to think and ponder. One of my older sisters has given me great hope by telling me some forgotten memories begin to surface again with age!
So…a penny for your thoughts. Your experience and wisdom right now, right here, could make a difference in someone else’s life. Let’s take time to share, and also time to let those older share their stories and thoughts with us too! Each time you see a penny…remember your value and the value of age and experience.
“My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:2-3
Christian devotions are not just for reading, but for us to meditate on the thoughts God gives us and then to activate what we've learned and do. Each time you see a penny, notice how shiny or dull it may be. Let it remind you that God has equipped you with not only gifts, but also experiences for Him to use as you impact others around you with His love. How can you do that today? |
© Copyright 2018 Susan Smart
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