As seniors age, they go through many life transitions, including retirement. These changes can be emotional and overwhelming at times. However, believers have the assurance that God makes all things beautiful in his time (Ecclesiastes 3:11) and that all things work together for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28).
During his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus compared his teachings to a solid rock. He explained that if someone builds their house on a rock, its foundation will be good and the house will stand, even through storms and changing weather (Matthew 7:24-25).
In the same way, you can build your life on Jesus' teachings. This provides you stability, even when your circumstances change. Whether you're excited about retirement or uncertain about how to manage the lack of routine, you can turn to Jesus to help you weather the changes with his peace and guidance.
Retirement often offers seniors a lot of free time. For individuals who choose to move into a retirement community, this can be doubly true. Besides no longer having responsibilities at work, residents of these communities don't have to spend time maintaining their yards or homes.
This newfound time can be a great blessing, letting you pursue goals, dreams and hobbies you may have neglected previously. An abundance of free time may also lead to uncertainty about how to spend it. Faith, however, can help you stay grounded during these major life transitions.
Time set aside each day to read the Bible, pray or worship God offers structure to an open schedule. This time with God can also help you prioritize your activities and focus on the things that are worth spending your time on.
While retirement gives you the time to relax and pursue hobbies, you may find yourself discontented after a while without purposeful activities. God has a purpose for every season in your life, though, and he equips you with the abilities to fulfill your role in it. As you explore ways to serve him, perhaps through your church, volunteer work or supporting your family, you can rest assured he will give you the knowledge and the strength you need.
One of the most important roles a senior has in life is that of a kingdom builder. All believers are entrusted with the Great Commission to teach others about Christ. Many believers share the gospel around the world as missionaries while following this commission, but there are just as many opportunities for Christians to serve within their own homes and towns. As you enter retirement, consider how you can use your free time to share your faith with others and help them experience God's love and peace for themselves.
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 NLT
God gives every person knowledge and talent. Oftentimes, serving God is as simple as putting the skills he gives you to good use. You may use talents you've already discovered, such as teaching, to lead a children's Sunday School class or a Bible study of your peers.
However, it's just as likely that God will reveal a new talent for you to use to help others. We've witnessed firsthand how residents in the senior living communities under the Bethesda Senior Living Community umbrella discover talents during retirement, such as singing, dancing, painting or playing an instrument.
One of the most exciting aspects of using your talents is the numerous ways you can go about it. For example, if you enjoy playing an instrument, you can try your hand at:
1 Corinthians 12 explains that the Body of Christ is made of many believers working together. Each person contributes their time and talents, and the collection of their abilities lets them function as a whole and help those in need.
Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. Hebrews 11:1 NLT
Every believer stepping into a new season in life has the assurance that God is always with them (Isaiah 41:10). He offers the strength and wisdom to live the abundant life promised by his Son Jesus (John 10:10). While change can reshape your circumstances, responsibilities and schedule, it can't erase the peace and purpose faith brings into your life.
