Let me make a confession here. I’m married. I’m a (gasp!) senior citizen about to turn freakin’ 65 in July, and I HATE growing old, although I realize it beats the alternative. 🙂 However, the pitfalls of growing old as a single Christian Baby Boomer come with its own set of issues that I’d like to hit on here.
Growing old is a journey marked by twists and turns, highs and lows. So, let’s delve into the heartfelt exploration of the pitfalls of growing old as a single Christian, acknowledging the struggles while clinging to the hope found in Christ.
Top 5 Pitfalls of growing old as a single Christian
Living in the Past
I know from my own experience that living in the past is a trap, and one of the greatest joy-stealers in life. Thinking about that lost love, or the “would of, could of. or should of’s ” of life will always bring you to a dark, sad place. This happened to me in the pandemic, and it thrust me into months of depression. There’s a reason Paul wrote this, so let’s take his advice here:
 I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us up to heaven because of what Christ Jesus did for u.
Loneliness: The Silent Struggle
One of the most significant pitfalls of growing old as a single Christian is the pervasive sense of loneliness that can seep into every corner of our lives. Well, let me clue you in on something: Loneliness does not necessarily go away just because one is married. At least it hasn’t for me.
While we may have friends, family, and a vibrant church community, there are moments when the ache of solitude hits us like a tidal wave. We long for someone to share life’s joys and sorrows, to laugh with us in moments of mirth and hold us close in times of need. Yet, finding that deep connection of a soulmate can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, leaving us feeling adrift in a sea of faces. In the end, only Jesus can truly fill that empty missing piece.
Societal Pressures: The Weight of Expectations
In a world that often places a premium on marriage and family, growing old as a single Christian can feel like swimming against the tide. We’re bombarded with fake news messages that equate happiness and fulfillment with finding “the one” and settling down, leaving us feeling like outliers in a culture obsessed with romantic love. The pressure to conform to societal expectations can weigh heavily on our shoulders, leaving us questioning our worth and validity as single individuals. We wonder if we’re somehow defective or incomplete because we haven’t found our other half, forgetting that our identity is found in Christ alone.
Aging Alone: The Fear of the Unknown
As we age, the fear of growing old alone can loom large on the horizon, casting a shadow of uncertainty over our golden years. Who’s going to change my diaper? Who will take care of us when we’re no longer able to care for ourselves, who will be there to hold our hand in sickness and in health, and who will bear witness to all the crazy memories that make life worth living? The fear of facing old age without a partner by our side can be paralyzing, leading us to question whether we’ll ever find the companionship and support we so desperately crave.
Seeking Community: Finding Connection in Fellowship
While the journey of growing old as a single Christian may have its pitfalls, it’s also a journey enriched by the bonds of community and fellowship. We find solace in the company of fellow believers who understand the unique challenges we face and offer a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and a hand to hold. We find purpose in serving others, reaching out to those in need, and building meaningful connections that transcend the boundaries of age, status, and relationship status. By the way, if you are looking for a Christian Singles Group to join, here you go.
My Final Thoughts on Growing
old as a Single Christian
Growing old as a single Christian is a journey fraught with pitfalls, but it’s also a journey filled with moments of grace, beauty, and hope. As we navigate the challenges of loneliness, longing, societal pressures, and aging alone, let us embrace singleness, and the fact that we are never alone, for God is with us always. Let us seek solace in the community of believers who walk alongside us, offering support, encouragement, and love. And let us remember that our worth and identity are found in Christ alone, who gives us strength to face each day with courage and grace.
0 Comments