In a culture that often glorifies youth and productivity, it is easy to believe as a person ages that their most meaningful contributions have already happened. Yet, Scripture paints a very different picture. I ran across, Psalms 92:14, and it brought a smile to my face. We have been given a powerful promise: “They will bear fruit in old age; they will stay fresh and green.” This verse reminds us that a life rooted in God never stops growing, never stops producing, and never loses purpose at any age.
When we remain connected to God, He sustains us. Even in seasons of loss, illness, or transition, He continues to work in and through us. Just as a tree draws nourishment from the soil, we draw life from our relationship with God, through prayer, reading Scripture, worship, and spending time with Him. Therefore, fruitfulness becomes less about our striving and more about abiding.
Jesus reminds us in, John 15:5, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing”.
This is a vivid picture that allows us to see that a vine is the main plant – the source of life. Branches grow out of it and only stay alive if they remain connected. If a branch is cut off, it withers and dies. We are always completely dependent upon Jesus.
If you are young, you can begin now by building habits that root you in God.
If you are in midlife, recognize that this is a season to continue to grow and a powerful time to influence others as you stay connected to God.
If you are older, know that your fruit may be the most impactful it has ever been because it has been seasoned with life-lessons and experience.
Bearing fruit as a Christian is not a phase of life – it is a lifelong calling. We are assured by the Word that we are never too old or too young to grow, to serve, to make a difference, and to be used by God. As long as we remain rooted in Him, our lives will continue to produce meaning.
No matter your age, God is glorified by our fruit. John 15:8a, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit.”
What season do you find yourself in? Stay rooted in God and trust Him with the growth.
—Rhonda L. Smart, rhondalsmart@gmail.com
