Proverbs 16:31 states, “Grey hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.”

I remember the first time I saw a grey hair on my head. I was in my 20’s—so, I was a little dramatic and I totally freaked out. I felt like I had aged 40 years in a single moment. Why did I feel this way? I think that there is a certain stigma in North America that grey hair is degrading, but that is not what the Bible teaches. The Bible teaches that grey hair is an honor.

As a child, my mom taught me to respect my elders. When we took the bus to piano lessons, I would always give my seat up to anyone who was my elder. If I was riding in a car with an elder, I always gave them the front seat. So, when I became a youth pastor in Michigan, I taught my students to respect and honor the elders of the church, and they learned to open their doors, carry their things, and would put them in front of the line at the church Potluck. Now that I have a daughter of my own, I am resolute to teach her similar principles.

Learning To Honor Our Elders

Respect, at times, seems to be a lost art. However, I want to strive to honor those who are my leaders, elders, and spiritual authority. Grey hair is a sign of wisdom and blessing, and the Bible states that we need to take care of those who spent years taking care of us.

There are times when I have spoke to an elder and they have expressed that they feel forgotten or unimportant. I am making a commitment to display the purpose of God in a person’s life, regardless of their age. If you are a young person reading this, or if you are seasoned in age, God has not forgotten about you and He has a plan for your life.

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. Isaiah 46:3

Today, I encourage you to find an elder that you can honor. Buy them flowers, sit and talk with them, ask them for advice, and tell them how much you appreciate them. If you are an elder, we honor you today.

Prayer: Lord, I pray that you would bless my leaders. You know the battles they have fought so I could have freedom. You know the sacrifices they have made so I could live with certain comforts. Lord, I pray that you would teach me how to truly honor someone. In Jesus name.

Author

Angela Overton is a lover of words, nature, and coffee. She is an ordained minister with the UPCI, has a Masters Degree in Theology, and loves to teach Bible studies. She and her amazing husband, Michael, pastor in Silver Spring, Maryland.

1 Comment

  1. Shelly Stringfellow

    Beautiful post! Yes, we often forget to honor those who have blazed the trail before us and to be grateful for all their sacrifices over the years. If it wasn’t for them and others before them, we would not have the opportunities and blessings we now enjoy. I so appreciate this!