What is a biblical perspective on aging / growing old?

what does the bible say?

Aging is a natural part of life that the Bible encourages us to embrace as a source of wisdom and glory (Proverbs 16:31). Solomon's reflections in Ecclesiastes highlight the importance of living purposefully, recognizing that our earthly lives are temporary yet meaningful when lived in alignment with God’s will. As we grow older, we are reminded to make the most of our time, knowing that every day offers us the opportunity to serve others and glorify God (Ephesians 2:10). For believers, the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ (John 3:16) transforms our perspective on aging, allowing us to approach it with hope and gratitude. Ultimately, growing old is not a burden but a chance to deepen our relationship with God and fulfill our God-given purpose until we enter His eternal presence (2 Corinthians 5:8).

from the old testament

Proverbs 16:31 says, "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life." Growing old is not something to dread but something to be valued, as a crown of glory.Solomon frequently references aging in Ecclesiastes as he uncovers the meaning of life. He unpacks the pointlessness of living for the moment and trying to fulfill our deepest desires with the things of this world in Ecclesiastes 1—7.Life, or aging, is not just toiling "under the sun" only to be forgotten. This would be pointless indeed. Instead, in God, life and the process of aging have great meaning and importance. Solomon advises, "In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other, so that man may not find out anything that will be after him" (Ecclesiastes 7:14).Rather than worry about aging, we are to understand our earthly lives for what they are and live them well. Solomon talks about the difference between our time on earth and eternity, the brevity of life, and the seeming indifference of justice in this life (Ecclesiastes 3:15–17; 8:5–8, 12–15; 9:11–12; 11:9; 12:14).Solomon wrote, "He who is joined with all the living has hope, for a living dog is better than a dead lion. For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten. Their love and their hate and their envy have already perished, and forever they have no more share in all that is done under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 9:4–6, see also Ecclesiastes 9:7–10; 11:9—12:7). While we are still alive, we still have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.Moses prayed, "So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom" (Psalm 90:12). Recognizing that life is short and wanting to live our lives fully for God helps us to embrace the process of aging and grow old gracefully.

from the new testament

Even if we live a relatively long life, life on earth is short: "What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes" (James 4:14).Our lives are in God's hand, and every season of our lives has purpose in Him (Romans 8:28–29).The parables of the ten virgins and the talents (Matthew 25) reveal that we will be accountable for what God has bestowed upon us and asked of us.For those who are in Christ, we know that death will bring us into God's presence (2 Corinthians 5:8). But we also know that our lives are in His hands; if He has seen fit to extend our days of life, we have that many more days to serve Him here (2 Corinthians 5:9; Philippians 1:18–26). We can be grateful for all the days God gives us.

implications for today

Growing old is meaningful, and even joyous, when we realize and accept God's greatest bestowment to us: His Son Jesus Christ (John 3:16). When we do, we can look forward to our eternal inheritance while gratefully living out our earthly purpose (Ephesians 2:10), all the while drawing closer to God and being transformed in righteousness (Romans 8:28–29). This acknowledgment shapes our perspective on aging. As we grow older, we can look forward to our eternal inheritance, understanding that our time on earth is a precious opportunity to fulfill the unique purpose God has laid out for each of us (Ephesians 2:10). By actively engaging in this purpose, we contribute to the world around us, serving others and glorifying God in our actions. Additionally, as we navigate the challenges and changes that come with aging, we have the opportunity to draw closer to God, allowing Him to transform us into His likeness (Romans 8:28–29). This transformation fosters a deeper relationship with God, filling our later years with peace, joy, and a sense of fulfillment as we reflect on a life lived in service to Him and others. Ultimately, embracing our identity in Christ empowers us to face each day with gratitude and hope, knowing that every moment counts as we prepare for our eternal home.