Over the Hill & Picking Up SpeedSample

Bearing Fruit Each Season

Scripture

“But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” (Psalms 1:2-3 NLT)

Reflection

At a recent church prayer gathering, a special prayer focus was directed to those over sixty years of age. As someone now part of this age group, it prompted personal reflection—not just on my own journey, but on the experiences of others in this season of life.

Culturally, aging is often associated with decline—phrases like “over the hill” or “put out to pasture” suggest diminished purpose and relevance. Physical signs like creaky joints and career transitions may reinforce this narrative, leaving many to ask, “Now what?”

I want to challenge that perspective.

Being over sixty doesn’t mean life is slowing down or one lacks purpose - it can mean we’re gaining momentum. One may be considered as “over the hill”, but we are picking up speed. These years can be some of the most purposeful and productive, if we choose to see them in this manner.

In this devotional, we’ll look at biblical figures who, though considered “over the hill” by today’s standards, stepped boldly into God’s calling and made a lasting impact.

As Psalm 1:3 reminds us, those who delight in God’s Word are like trees planted by streams of water -flourishing, fruitful, and steadfast in every season of life.

Application

How can you shift your perspective with respect to your God given purpose as one in this age group, or to help someone you might know if you are not in this age category?

Prayer

Father, you know the plans you have for me. They are plans to prosper me and not to harm me, to give me a future and a hope. Help me to hear what you are saying to me during this season of my life and to fulfill the calling you have for me as it relates to influencing others for your kingdom.