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Chapter 8

single lives,many Christian couples are

calling it quits.It is alarming to note that

Christian marriages end as frequently as

non-Christian marriages.According to

Barna statistics,among married,born-

again Christians,35% have experienced

a divorce.That figure is identical to the

outcome among married adults who are

not born-again Christians (Barna,

2006).As Christian couples enter their

middle and later years,it would be wise

for them to“get back to basics”in their

marital relationships.Christian

counselors or pastors trained to counsel

couples can help them rediscover the joy

of their covenant partnership and

reconnect to their full potential as

marriage partners.

A Christian Perspective on Aging

God loves us throughout all the stages

of our lives.He has a special love for

those who are growing older.Many

Scriptures refer to growing old as the

culmination of a good life,in which we

continue to enjoy life and family,remain

productive,and continue our walk with

God.Compare the following scriptures

(all from the NLT) against some of

today’s myths,stereotypes,and fears

associated with aging.Do they match?

• “Abraham livedfor 175years,and
  hediedat a ripeoldage,having
  liveda longandsatisfyinglife.He
  breathedhislast andjoinedhis
  ancestorsindeath”(Genesis25:7–8).


• “Today I am 85 years old.I am as
  strong now as I was when Moses
  sent me on that journey,and I can
  still travel and fight as well as I
  could then”(Joshua 14:10b–11,
  Caleb speaking).


• “So David son of Jesse reigned over
  all Israel.He reigned over Israel for
  40 years,7 of them in Hebron and
  33 in Jerusalem.He died at a ripe
  old age,having enjoyed long life,
  wealth,and honor.Then his son
  Solomon ruled in his place”
  (1 Chronicles 29:26–28).


• “Grandchildren are the crowning
  glory of the aged; parents are the
  pride of their children”
  (Proverbs 17:6).


• “Listen to me,descendents of
  Jacob,all you who remain in Israel.
  I have cared for you since you were
  born.Yes,I carried you before you
  were born.I will be your God
  throughout your lifetime—until
  your hair is white with age.I made
  you,and I will care for you.I will
  carry you along and save you”
  (Isaiah 46:3–4).