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Keep Your Armor On, December 23
And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you:
I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.
Isaiah 46:4
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The history of John affords a striking illustration of the way in which God
can use aged workers. When John was exiled to the Isle of Patmos, there were
many who thought him to be past service, an old and broken reed, ready to fall
at any time. But the Lord saw fit to use him still. Though banished from the
scenes of his former labor, he did not cease to bear witness to the truth. Even in
Patmos he made friends and converts. His was a message of joy, proclaiming a
risen Saviour....
The most tender regard should be cherished for those whose life interest has
been bound up with the work of God. These aged workers have stood faithful
amid storm and trial. They may have infirmities, but they still possess talents that
qualify them to stand in their place in God’s cause. Though worn, and unable
to bear the heavier burdens that younger men can and should carry, the counsel
they can give is of the highest value.
They may have made mistakes, but from their failures they have learned
to avoid errors and dangers, and are they not therefore competent to give wise
counsel? They have borne test and trial, and though they have lost some of
their vigor, the Lord does not lay them aside. He gives them special grace and
wisdom.... The Lord desires the younger laborers to gain wisdom, strength, and
maturity by association with these faithful men....
As those who have spent their lives in the service of Christ draw near to
the close of their earthly ministry, they will be impressed by the Holy Spirit
to recount the experiences they have had in connection with the work of God.
The record of His wonderful dealings with His people, of His great goodness in
delivering them from trial, should be repeated to those newly come to the faith.
God desires the old and tried laborers to stand in their place, doing their part to
save men and women from being swept downward by the mighty current of evil.
He desires them to keep the armor on till He bids them lay it down
[364]
39
Ibid., 572-574
.
378