“Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.”— Psalm 71:17-18
The great evangelist George Whitefield was relating the difficulties of ministry to some friends. He said he was weary of the burdens and glad that his work would soon be over so he could depart to be with Christ. The others admitted having similar feelings – all except one, a Mr. Tennant.
Noting this, Whitefield tapped him on the knee and said, “Well, Brother Tennant, you are the oldest among us; do you not rejoice to think that your time is so near at hand when you will be called Home?”
The old man answered bluntly that he had no wish about it. When pressed for something more definite, he added, “I have nothing to do with death. My business is to live as long as I can, and as well as I can, and serve my Savior as faithfully as I can, until He thinks it’s time to call me Home.“
Never doubt your usefulness to God or His purposes for your life. Like the elderly Mr. Tennant, remember that you serve Jesus and He commands your destiny even now.
Your experience, wisdom, and knowledge are a blessing. And you have a God-given responsibility to share that blessing with the next generation.
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to give you renewed strength and conviction to serve Him faithfully. Pray for chances to encourage and guide others.
Questions for thought
What are some lessons God’s taught you in your life that you think would be especially helpful for people today?
How could you share those lessons with the next generation?