In a day when young and hip is celebrated and elder and wise is often dismissed and relegated to a place of lesser importance, it is imperative that we as believers recognize such verses as 1 Peter 5:5, which begins by stating: “Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder.” 

An example of our society’s “young age obsession” is seen in the fact that in many churches, the title of “senior pastor” has been replaced with “lead pastor.” I guess the associate pastor should be called the “rhythm pastor” (old rockers will get that, lol). 

I have noticed that many elder Bible teachers who are seasoned in the Word of God are similar to fine wine which has become better with age. (At least I have heard that about wine, but you get the point.) 

In our society, it is almost as if age and becoming older are frowned upon, and in its place, youth and natural charisma are now relied upon. Now, we are in no way saying that an elderly Christian is always wise, for the opposite can be true if one’s heart has been hardened over a prolonged period of time. 

However, it is imperative that we do not despise one’s age and that we recognize the Word of God working within one’s person, regardless of age. “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the power may be of God and not of us” (2 Cor. 4:7). 

The sad truth of our society is that many are more moved by the sensual sensation of a light show than they are the Word of God, which is one of the reasons our culture is in the shape that it currently is in. 

As it pertains to our brethren, rather than being so “age focused,” let’s become “Word focused,” and thus not despise or regard as insignificant the Word of God! “He who despises the word will be destroyed, But he who fears the commandment will be rewarded” (Prov. 13:13, New King James Version).  

In a world where getting older is feared, believers need to recognize that in the kingdom of God, getting older should be revered. Therefore, we do not lose heart. “Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is renewed day by day” (2 Cor. 4:16, NKJV). 

It is time for us as believers to operate from a kingdom of God perspective and not allow ourselves to be conformed to this world’s “young age obsession.” “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love” (Col. 1:13, NKJV).  

Amen.