But Scripture also models methods for seeking guidance from others in our lives. In fact, God often sends other people to provide wisdom, support and guidance for people in Bible stories. Moses, Joshua and Samuel provide guidance to the Israelites. Nathan advises David. Even the apostle Paul is sent to Ananias for guidance upon his conversion. These are just a few of these types of relationships you can find throughout the Bible.
While the Bible clearly demonstrates that we may need to provide spiritual guidance to others during our lives and seek it in times of our own need, it doesn't always feel easy to do so. Older adults who've walked in faith for years may be used to providing this type of guidance but may no longer be used to seeking it. Or you may have moved away from or lost some of your spiritual support community and wonder where to turn to find new guidance.
You might be surprised at all the paths God can use for this purpose, though. Check out eight options below.
Church leadership is often a first thought when someone needs spiritual guidance or has a question about their faith or theology. If you attend a local church, reach out to pastors, teaching pastors or others on staff. Large churches often have classes or gatherings to foster community and make it easier for congregants to meet with staff. Read through bulletins or ask at welcome stations about your options if you're not sure how to connect.
The body of believers also offers plentiful resources for discussing faith and getting feedback and guidance about issues. Consider joining a small group or Bible study so you can engage with others in church. By building closer relationships, you can find people you trust with your spiritual questions.
Residents of the assisted living communities under the Bethesda Senior Living Communities umbrella can also check activity calendars to learn about Bible study and other faith-based group activities.
If you want particularly in-depth guidance or to walk through mental health or emotional challenges with someone who'll take a faith-based approach, you might consider a Christian counselor or therapist. These professionals offer evidence-based therapy options while also keeping in mind the importance of prayer and a Biblical focus for those of faith.
Our assisted living communities provide a number of on-site amenities and resources to ensure vibrant lifestyles and support overall wellness for residents. One of those resources is an on-site chaplain. If you're residing in an independent living or assisted living community, ask about chaplain resources for spiritual guidance.
If your learning style is text-based or you prefer to explore your theological concerns on your own, you may be able to find guidance in books. You can get books on a variety of faith topics at local bookstores, via online retailers such as Amazon and at your local library.
Some assisted living communities have their own libraries, and it may be worth browsing the shelves there too. You might also start a book club with other like-minded readers so you can dig deeper into whatever you're reading via discussions.
Google isn't a stand-in for a good pastor, counselor or friend, but the internet does offer an easy way to find information and get some basic answers to questions about theology or the Bible. For instance, if you're dealing with fear, you can Google Bible stories and verses about facing fear. That turns up resources such as this page with 20 verses about fear that might be helpful as you turn to Scripture for guidance.
You can also find sermons, articles and other resources online to help you understand Bible stories or think about what the Bible has to say about certain topics.
Podcasts can be another great resource for understanding the Bible or considering in-depth spiritual matters. Some podcasts you might want to try include The Bible Project, The Bible Recap, The Living Waters Podcast or Elevation With Steven Furtick.
You can listen to most of these podcasts for free online via your computer and web browser or via a mobile device and an app like Spotify.
Don't forget potentially the most available resource for spiritual guidance: your loved ones, friends and neighbors. Some older adults may be so used to being the leader when it comes to spiritual matters that they forget that adult children and even young grandchildren may have something valuable to offer in this regard. Consider sharing your heart and life with the people closest to you so they have a chance to provide spiritual support and guidance if God is working through them in your life.
