A Psalm for Seniors

Many senior citizens feel forsaken and forgotten by family and friends. Seniors struggle with poor health and age related issues. Our neighborhoods and nursing homes are full of seniors who face a sense of loneliness and abandonment. But the Psalmist gives us hope and comfort from God’s Word. “O Lord, you alone are my hope. I’ve trusted you from childhood. Yes, you have been with me from birth; from my mother’s womb you have cared for me. No wonder I am always praising you! My life is an example to many because you have been my strength and protection . . . I declare your glory all day long. And now in my old age, don’t set me aside. Don’t abandon me when my strength is failing” (Psalm 71:5-9 NLT). (Psalm 73:23-26)

How can seniors be productive and happy despite facing age related issues? The church my wife and I attend whenever I’m not ministering somewhere has a fellowship of seniors who call them selves the Prime-Timers. I like that name. Seniors are actually in the prime of their life and many have more time to contribute to the life of others and to know God more intimately and exuberantly. Let’s use the acrostic for PRIMETIMES and see characteristics of experiencing the abundant life that Jesus offers in our senior years. See what other life points you can add to each letter that will enrich your life as a Prime-Timer.

P – PROMISES of God. The promises of God do not expire or have a time limit. They bring hope and purpose. But they must be claimed and appropriated by faith. Abraham, Moses, Caleb, and the Prophets Simeon and Anna are examples of seniors who refused to be confined to a rocking chair. They believed and claimed the promises of God.

R – REDEMPTION. The Psalmist David had the hope of eternal life. “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23:6). Do you have that blessed assurance? Share the good news with others.

I – INSPIRE others by your example. “My life is an example to many because you have been my strength and protection” (Psalm 71:7). Sociologists tell us that even the most introverted individual will influence 10,000 other people during his/her lifetime! That is amazing. Let your light shine!

M – MERCY. Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall be shown mercy” (Matthew 5:7). To stay sweet and fruitful it is imperative to show mercy to others. (Matthew 6:12-15)

E – ENCOURAGE and EXPRESS appreciation to someone every day. It could be in a card, an e-mail, a phone call, or just a smile.

T – TEACH others. Do you have a talent, skill, or knowledge gained by years of experience? Teach the new generation. (Psalm 71:18)

I – INTERCEED in prayer. Abraham, Moses, Daniel, Simeon, and Anna were great intercessors. God moves in answer to prayer. (I Timothy 2:1-3)

M – MAKE something for someone. It could be a quilt, a piece of artwork, a poem, woodworking, or even a loaf of bread. “Give and it shall be given unto you’ (Luke 6:38). Joy and fulfillment come through giving.

E – EXERCISE. Do what you can to stay active and limber. God expects us to take care of our bodies the best we can. We will feel better and be healthier. But don’t forget to exercise unto godliness. (I Timothy 4:8)

R – RENEW your mind. As we read and meditate on the word of God our mind is renewed and we are constantly being transformed into Christ’s image. (Romans 12:1-2; Philippians 4:4-9)

S – SING to the Lord. The Psalmist is constantly overflowing with praises to God (Psalm 71:22-23) Singing to the Lord will keep your heart overflowing.

May you have the psalmist’s assurance in your senior years. “My health may fail and my spirit may grow weak but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever” (Psalm 73:26).