More time, more years, more opportunities, more energy, more, more, more. I confess, my greedy heart suffers from Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) so I always seem to want MORE! Recently I was asked to share my story about my pathway to contentment, especially during the “Older Years.” Our ladies group at church had been studying what the Bible has to say about contentment for the last year and being one of the older women there, qualified me on this topic. Not because I’ve mastered it, mind you, but because I’m older! I am still learning the secret of being content, which according to the apostle Paul, it is something we learn. We are not born content, therefore we need to learn it.
I’m sharing the audio link to my message here today, hoping my story can help someone learn along with me. My ups and downs, may prove to remind you of challenges in your own life that may lead to your own peace and joy as well, no matter how old you are.
The outline is below. (I had fun choosing some of my paintings for the presentation to illustrate the points, since images really help me remember.)
Audio Recording: Contentment in the Older Years: CLICK HERE (approx. 45 min.)
OUTLINE:
INTRODUCTION
* Wanted and Unwanted Changes
* Learning Contentment in the Older Years
#1. REDEEM THE TIME
Struggles with Reaching Forward
Struggles with Reaching Back
#2. ACCEPT YOUR LIMITATIONS
Limitations forced upon us. Accept them.
Remember your Creator. He is good, so His plan is good. He will help me. He is renewing me.
#3. EMBRACE YOUR CURRENT ROLE
Grief and Loss
New role as a widow.
#4. PRESS ON
Rooted in God
Flourishing
CONCLUSION
Older is the new younger.
