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Beauty is a $445 billion (sales) industry which capitalizes on youthfulness. From make-up, work-outs, and diets, to lotions, potions, and shampoos—the focus is on outward appearance.

A popular claim from a number of such products is “anti-aging.” However, science has not yet discovered a single product or ingredient that can slow or even reverse the aging process.

And yet, we dream . . .

Let’s face it, as we approach another new year, most of us wouldn’t mind looking and feeling younger. Can I get an AMEN?

Those of us who weren’t born yesterday, realize the cold hard facts: we cannot slow down the hands of time. We all know that aging is part of life. Whether young or old, we are all growing older.

This is why when I was reading my Bible and stumbled across a particular verse, my eyes did a double take.

“He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!” Psalm 103:5

Sounds good to me! But what does this truly mean? What’s with the comparison of youth to an eagle?

As it turns out, the eagle is known for its long life and great strength. Throughout an eagle’s life, the bird’s feathers are replaced with new ones. The process is called molting. It is a gradual process, continually renewing the feathers.

The comparison with the eagle is not merely an outward renewal but of an inward continued renovation of vigor and strength derived from Almighty God, the Creator.

And even the young grow weary. All are in need of renewal.

Have you never heard?
Have you never understood?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of all the earth.
He never grows weak or weary.
No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
He gives power to the weak
and strength to the powerless.
Even youths will become weak and tired,
and young men will fall in exhaustion.
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40: 28-31 NLT

3 WAYS TO RENEW YOUR YOUTH

1. WORRY LESS

I know, I know. Easier said than done! But the truth is, stress and worry are killing us. Research shows prolonged anxiety causes a steady release of stress hormones that literally speed-up the aging process.

When we are anxious, worried and stressed, this directly points to our lack of faith in God’s sovereignty. The Lord knows his children get worried. So, he provides a remedy for our continued renewal.

We must counteract worry with faith and trust through prayer.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NLT

2. SMILE AND LAUGH MORE

Laughter has been shown to lead to the reduction of stress hormones. But it’s difficult to laugh or even smile when you are stressed out, angry, and dissatisfied. So, how do we turn that frown upside down? When I become aware of heightened stress in my life, I have found that singing to the Lord is a game changer. It works because rather than dwelling on the negative, I shift my focus to the positive. It’s pretty difficult to complain, be angry and stressed while focusing on the Lord’s goodness. My mom called it counting your blessings.

“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Philippians 4:8 NLT

3. HELP OTHERS

When we do good for others, the recipients aren’t the only ones reaping the benefits. Once again, studies show when we help others, the brain releases “feel-good” chemicals that can lead to the reduction of stress hormones. Not only will we experience joy from helping others, but we are also pleasing the Lord by emulating His Son, Jesus.

“And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35

My friends, the Bible offers a host of other ways for spiritual renewal. But like any good remedy, it only works if applied as directed.  For continued renewal in this new year and the years to come, we must abide consistently in the Lord (John 15:5).

My prayer for you (and for myself) is a renewed commitment to spiritual growth which only comes through spending time with the Lord.

Here’s something to consider: our actions reflect what is truly important to us.

A new year brings with it the promises of God. A reset. A chance for renewal. Is spiritual renewal and growth important to you? Only time will tell.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Love,
Beckie 

I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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