How to stay sharp well into your years

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. – Romans 12:2

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., was and still is generally regarded as one of the greatest justices in the history of the U.S. Supreme Court. Because of his often – heated disagreements with the other justices, he gained a reputation as the “Great Dissenter.”

Holmes sat on the Supreme Court until he was 91 years old. Two years later, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt visited him and found him immersed in reading the works of Plato, “Why are you reading Plato?” FDR asked. “You’re 93 years old and are already one of the most brilliant men to have ever lived!”

“I’m reading to improve my mind,” Holmes answered.

Many older men and women fall under the impression that, at a certain age, they can stop learning. They think they know all they need to know, and there’s no use getting smarter. But the truth is that, no matter your age, you should never stop learning.

Your mind is one of the most powerful tools you have to glorify God (Mark 12:30). So instead of becoming idle, keep reading God’s Word regularly and meditating on His character. Give Him your body and your mind so that you’ll stay sharp well into your years!

Prayer Challenge

Ask God to show you how you can glorify Him with your mind today.

Questions for Thought

In what ways have you grown too comfortable with your level of knowledge today?

Besides reading Scripture, what are some other ways you can stay mentally active?