The Strength of Age and the Wisdom of God
By Dr. David L. Sampson
God does not waste the years He gives you. Every season of your life is shaped by His hand, filled with purpose, and intended for His glory. Growing older with the Lord is not something to be feared or resented; it is something to be embraced as a gift from God. As you grow older in the presence of the Lord, your relationship should increase and deepen. When the believer walks with God, the Lord molds your life into a testimony of faith that others can follow. Your experiences, trials, and victories are not just part of your story—they are portraits of God's grace in your life that He can use to strengthen and guide the next generation.
Consider the example of Elijah. After years of faithful service, Elijah did not fade quietly into the background and retire. Instead, he intentionally poured his life into Elisha, a younger prophet who desired to carry on God’s work. When Elijah asked what he could do for him before being taken away, Elisha responded, “I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me” (2 Kings 2:9). Elisha did not ask for a position or possessions; he asked for the spiritual strength he had seen in Elijah’s life. That kind of strength only comes from a deep and enduring walk with God.
Moses also understood the importance of passing on wisdom. He led the people of Israel through the wilderness and stood as a steady voice of truth and obedience. Yet, as his journey neared its end, Moses did not hold tightly to leadership. Instead, he encouraged Joshua and prepared him to take the next step forward. “And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him… be strong and of a good courage” (Deuteronomy 31:7). Just as God enabled Moses, He would do the same for Joshua. Moses’ years of faithfulness helped shape Israel’s future leader, and God used that transition to continue His work through a new generation.
In his later years, the Apostle Paul made a deliberate effort to invest in Timothy. He called him “my dearly beloved son” (2 Timothy 1:2) and urged him to remain grounded in the truth he had received. Paul didn’t simply offer advice; he modeled a life of godliness. His words to Timothy are clear: “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them” (2 Timothy 3:14). Paul knew that spiritual legacy is not about recognition; it is about passing on the truth of God's Word with love and clarity.
If you have walked with God for many years, remember that your life is not behind you—it is still being used by God. You carry within you “truth and wisdom” that the next generation needs. Your testimony can offer stability to a wavering heart. Your wisdom can guide younger believers in making wise choices. Your mentorship can be a source of strength, encouragement, and clarity. Do not underestimate the value of your years in walking with God. The prayers you pray, the lessons you have learned, and the spiritual battles you have fought are all part of God’s ongoing work. Your journey is not a fading light—it is a lamp for the feet of those who come behind you. Let your life be a bridge of truth and faithfulness. Stand firm in your calling, even in your older years, and allow God to be glorified in you.
Missional Until He Comes,
Dr. David L. Sampson
Titus 1:3
