The Bible says, “The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining brighter and brighter until the full light of day.” (Proverbs 4:18) Why is it then that for so many the path shines dimmer and dimmer? Why does life lose its lustre and for some even become the predicament that precedes death? Why does this happen? And how can we keep from succumbing to this slippery slide?
Let me give you three tips on how we, with God’s help, can keep the lustre in life and maintain our zest for living - regardless of our age.
1. Keep active. Our brain is a muscle and like every other muscle in our body, it requires regular exercise. “But I do crossword puzzles,” you say. That’s wonderful – but not enough! You’ve got to keep learning. Proverbs 19:27 CEV says, “If you stop learning, you will forget what you already know.” You have got to keep active. If you rest, you rust! It’s that simple. Everyone gets old! But not everyone experiences old age, largely because they keep active.
2. Engage with others. God told Adam in the Garden of Eden, “It is not good for man to be alone.” Life is to be a shared experience. Paul used the example of a physical body to describe the church. Each member of the body was important and necessary to its effectiveness and health. It is the same in life. There is an important interconnectedness that keeps society strong and advancing - and you are part of that movement. Good mental health requires that we engage with others. Avoid the lone-ranger syndrome. Bears who hibernate live dark and lonely lives!
3. Be a Barnabas. Barnabas in scripture was an encourager who came alongside the Apostle Paul and others to lend a supporting hand. (Acts 11:22-243) Where would the world be without Barnabas’? Choose a cause that is close to your heart. Lend a hand! And be an advocate for that cause. There are all kinds of opportunities to serve for those with eyes to see. There are few things better that will lift your spirits and give you a strong purpose for living than by being a Barnabas and in serving a cause bigger than yourself.
Sometimes we miss the wisdom in simple things. Like this well-worn acrostic about where true joy is found. JOY is found in prioritizing your life to serve Jesus, Others and You - in that order. Jesus said, “If you put yourself above others you will be put down. But if you humble yourself, you will be honoured.” (Luke 14:11)
Life does not have to become dull and humdrum. Keep active, engage regularly with others, and be a Barnabas to some needing your help today.
Be blessed my friend.
Glen (Pitts)
The Barnabas Group / Loads of Love
