Age old Wisdom

Age old Wisdom

Bible: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

Pray continually (V.17).

A few years ago a newspaper printed life lessons from eight senior citizens. It opened with these words: “While ageing brings challenges to mind and body, it can also lead to an expansion in other [areas].” The point was that older people have lots of life experience, which the article called “the wisdom of elders”.

The wise, older people in our churches have much to teach us younger people about life. But in the Bible, we meet a newly crowned king who didn’t understand this. King Solomon had just died and in 1 Kings 12:3 we read that “the whole assembly of Israel went to Rehoboam” with a request. They asked the new king to lessen the hard labour and heavy taxes Solomon had demanded of them. In return they would loyally serve Rehoboam.

At first the young king talked with the elders (V.6). But he pushed away their advice and listened instead to the unwise words of the young men who had grown up with him (V.8). He made the people work even harder and pay more taxes! His bad decision cost him most of his kingdom.
All of us need the kind of advice that comes from years of experience, especially from those who have walked with God for many years. Think of everything that God has already taught them! They have much to share with us about Him. Let’s spend time with them and listen to what they have to say.

What I’m Thankful for

Thank You, Father, for the older and wiser people You have placed in my life. Help me to learn from them and to listen to their God-centred advice.

THE FAMILY OF GOD IS FULL OF GOOD ADVICE IF WE’RE WILLING TO LISTEN.

Youth Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries