Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

I’m thankful to be turning 55 this year. I certainly don’t know everything, but I know a whole lot more about myself after living a few decades. I know my purpose. I know my God-given gifts. I know my shortcomings. I know my passions. But most of all, I know the character of my God so much more than I did at 25 — or even at 45.

“Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the highest heavens. You have done wonderful things. Who can compare with you, O God?” Psalm 71:19 (NLT)

Psalm 71 is written from the perspective of someone with “old age and gray hairs.” I understand that perspective a little more now — and I have the gray hairs to prove it! There’s a kind of wisdom that only comes with age and time spent walking with God. It’s a wisdom forged through life’s experiences — through both failures and victories, through good days and hard seasons. I still have much to learn, but I’ve learned a lot.

So what does a woman like me do in this season of life? I think the psalm gives us the answer:

“Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me.” Psalm 71:18 (NLT)

In worldly terms, I might be on the “downhill slide.” But in God’s terms, I believe I’m just getting started. I’m entering what may be my most fruitful season for His Kingdom. My husband and I are approaching empty-nester life. Retirement is a few years away. We’ve lived, we’ve learned, and now it’s time to pour into the next generation.

Our desire is to intentionally invest our time, talents, and treasures into raising up new Kingdom leaders — leaders who will, in turn, raise up other Kingdom leaders. I don’t want my name to be remembered; I want people to know and remember my King.

If you’re over 50, may I suggest a few ways to live the rest of your days abundantly for the Lord:

1. Keep growing in your relationship with the Lord. There is always more to learn, no matter your age or experience.

2. Open your home and HOST a House Church. This has been one of the most life-giving seasons for us. Hosting creates space for younger leaders to lead and for us to share life experiences as the Lord prompts. Venture could truly use your help — we must be intentional about letting the younger generation lead while we’re still in the room to support them.

3. Be intentional in your hobbies. Don’t just go play golf or pickleball for fun alone. Invite younger couples or individuals to join you. Discipleship can happen on the course or court, not just in a Bible study. Relationship-building often happens best in these everyday moments.

4. Listen well to both the younger generation and the Holy Spirit. If you truly listen to younger voices, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to encourage them. And as you listen, the Holy Spirit will often prompt you with wisdom to share at just the right time.

If you’re under 50, here’s my advice to you: seek God intentionally, and spend time with those who are more seasoned in life. You can glean so much from walking alongside older Believers — and they still have much to offer.

Jesus, I want to end today by praising you as the Psalmist did in chapter 72. Praise You, Lord God! You alone do such wonderful things like creating humans and causing the sun to rise each day. The whole earth is filled with Your glory! May we never forget this, and may we be people passionate about leading others to lead others for Your Kingdom. Your Kingdom Come! Your will be done! AMEN!

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

Use the S.O.A.P. Method to study God’s Word.

• SCRIPTURE: What stands out to you in today’s passage?
• OBSERVATION: What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands, instructions, or promises? 
• APPLICATION: How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you? 
• PRAYER: Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.

FALL AT VENTURE

KXP, MVMNT, The Gathering, House Church, and Care Groups are all starting back this fall! Check the Fall at Venture webpage for launch dates and events.