Adjusting Relationships As We Age – Finishing Strong Part 3.

Relationships are important at all stages of life. Steph shares how important it is to adjust our relationships as we grow older.

Unique Aging Challenges

Paul wrote to the church of Galatia saying,

“…the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:8b-10 ESV).

This passage from Galatians applies no matter what our age. However, there are unique challenges that present themselves as we grow older. As we age, everything changes to a certain extent, including how we interact with one another. From our relationship with our spouse to our relationships with our grown children. From our relationships with long-time friends to our relationships with members of our church. From our relationships with our siblings to our relationships with fellow volunteers and/or coworkers.

Not Fans of Change

The majority of people would likely say they’re not fans of change, but it is one of the constants in life. That may sound contradictory, but it really isn’t. For example, the Lord Himself transforms us when we become followers of Jesus. And that transformation continues throughout our life on earth.

Hopefully, we find ourselves growing closer to Him with each passing year. And even more importantly, hopefully, it will be increasingly evident to those whose paths cross ours—whether on a daily basis or only occasionally.

As we discussed last time, the litmus test for each decision must be how it reflects our love for God and others. Today, we are considering how “doing good” is evidenced in our relationships. And just as we can’t love as the Lord commands unless the Holy Spirit enables us, we can’t truly do good from right motives unless it is God Himself at work within us.

Retired Spouse

Perhaps our spouse has retired, and we now spend far more time with one another than we have in decades. Perhaps our children have grown and moved across the country or around the world. Perhaps a rift has developed between us and a longtime friend, someone we thought was our “ride or die.”

Perhaps, for health or other reasons, we can no longer fulfill paid or volunteer responsibilities that we once did. Perhaps we must relocate and re-establish ourselves in an entirely new environment.

If these are the kinds of changes we’re facing, it’s no wonder we are resistant to change. Change can be painful, to say the least.

The One Who Never Changes

Thankfully, there is One who never changes. Hebrews 13:8 assures us that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and for all eternity. We can settle into this reality and use it as a springboard for all the changes that come our way, including the changes that are likely to occur in our relationships.

Sometimes, we must look back in order to remind ourselves of God’s faithfulness. The children of Israel were instructed to remember how God cared for them from one generation to the next. Plus, they were to teach their sons and daughters of His faithfulness, no matter what was happening at any given point in history.

We can count on Him to sustain us and walk with us as He always has. He will give us the wherewithal to face the changes that come with aging and to pass along what we’re learning to others.

Relationships

And our relationships?

As we seek to do good to those whose paths cross ours, we can rest assured that we are making a much-needed contribution to their lives—whether they recognize and acknowledge it or not.

We must invite the Lord to work in our relationships—and in our hearts. He can bring healing and reconciliation. He can enable us to see things from a different perspective. He can give us the wherewithal to adapt to the changes that come our way. And He can, and will, give us everything we require to do the good to others that He commands of us.

And who knows? One day someone might surprise us by letting us know just how positive an impact we’ve made on their life.

And if they don’t, we can be assured that God is aware of every act of service, every instance of patience, and every kindness shown. Recommended Reading: Free of Me by Sharon Hodde Miller

How have you served God differently as you age? We would love to hear from you. Share your comment below or contact us at HopeStreamRadio.