What’s your perspective?

I don’t know about you, but I am constantly being bombarded with society’s preoccupation with youth and beauty.  I find the amount of grumbling over aging out of balance with honoring God.  Sure, I struggle with the same issues as others my age:  wrinkles, flab, sagging skin, weight gain, fatigue, sore muscles, gray and thinning hair, loss of memory, failing eye sight, desiring comfortable shoes, and so on…  but birthdays don’t bother me!  In fact, I look forward to my birthday every year!  Today is no exception!  It’s a day to thank God for knitting me in my mother’s womb, to reflect on where I’ve been and pray about how He is yet to use me and to admit nothing counts without God.  Dwelling on youth doesn’t change the fact that death is inevitable.  Whether I die today, tomorrow, in a few years or in many, my future is secure in Christ and in Christ alone.  Ultimately, the condition of my heart is what really matters to God.   Am I reflecting His character?  Am I doing things His way?  …for His glory?  While I am still here, He has work for me to do.  With the adoption of our two boys, there will indeed be work!   I believe with all my heart that if God called us to it, He will equip us – even at our age!  I am sometimes overwhelmed with emotion over the tedious process, the thought of having kids again, and the new challenges we will be facing, but I have enough life experience to know God is in control and He will guide us like He has before.  He is faithful.  His promises are trustworthy.  Today I pray that my perspective always be God-centered.  May I set my heart on the things that count for eternity and in all humility glory in the Lord as he continues to renew me day by day in wisdom and understanding!  Praise you, Lord, on this, my 51st birthday!!