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"THE JOY OF GODLY USEFULNESS" "For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him." (Genesis 21:2)The story of an elderly Abraham and Sarah tells us how God's promises interweave with human action, culminating in manifold blessings. It underscores God's faithfulness, provision, and His plan that extends beyond present day situations and continues on to future generations.We learn in verse 5 of this 21st chapter that Abraham was 100 years old. But, with the promise of God still ringing in his ears, a son Isaac was born. Sarah, Abraham’s wife, was well past her child-bearing years when Isaac was conceived.It's evident that no one was more surprised by this event than Sarah herself. Shortly afterward, Sarah says, "...Who would have said unto Abraham, that Sarah should have given children suck? for I have born him a son in his old age.” (v.7) It truly was an amazing and unthinkable blessing, that God would help Abraham and Sarah to see fruit, even in their elderly years. Yet, they received this baby with great faith and joy. And Abraham's faith to simply believe God has been a blessing to untold numbers (Genesis 12:2-3; Romans 4:3).Many elderly men and women today seem equally surprised at the possibility that God could bless them when they seem to be past the most fruitful, productive, and energetic years in their Christian life. Now while God doesn't necessary give them the ability to bear children when they're in their golden years, He is still able to use them mightily for His glory.Perhaps you don’t have the strength you used to have. You may be one of the many who are handicapped but through it all, you still possess a kind-hearted soul. You might not feel as useful for the Lord as you once did years ago, but remember, God looks at seemingly impossible things differently than you and I.But fellow believers, there are still prayers to be offered up for lost family members and friends. Younger parents have little children that should have a godly influence in their home. Grandpas and Grandmas have their grandchildren and great-grandchildren now who need to be taught the mighty ways of God that grandparents have learned by experience over the years. Then there's always those encouraging phone calls and visits that any of us can make. Friends, the Lord's desire for all His children, be they young or elderly, is to continually abide in the Lord Jesus and bear fruit for His Glory. May each of us then know the joy of godly usefulness during all of our years.