The Benefits of Youthfulness and Old Age

I was recently reading what the book of Proverbs says about those of us who are older, and those of us who are younger. Proverbs sixteen thirty-one says, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.” Proverbs 20:29 tells us that “the glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.” I love how Tim Keller helps us understand the truths contained in these verses. He writes, “We live in a culture that idolizes the beauty, energy, and creativity of youth. Proverbs, however, takes a remarkably balanced view of the unique splendor and glory of every age and stage of human life. The young have a strength and an unwearied ambition that older people cannot muster. The old have a perspective, wisdom, and dignity that younger people have not yet to acquire.” What a beautiful thing it is that God’s counter-cultural order and design encourages and allows us to benefit from those who are different. Let’s work together to love and serve the Lord.