What is valuable about life experience?

Proverbs 16:31Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained by living a godly life.

God honors those who live long and godly lives.

Deuteronomy 32:7Remember the days of long ago; think about the generations past. Ask your father, and he will inform you. Inquire of your elders, and they will tell you.

We can learn valuable life lessons from our elders, those who have seen God work in the world and in their lives through the years.

Job 12:12Wisdom belongs to the aged, and understanding to the old.

Because of their education and experiences, older people can have much wisdom to impart.

2 Timothy 2:1-2Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus. You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others.

Paul, Timothy’s mentor, instructed his son in the faith to teach others what he had learned from Paul. Life experiences can provide invaluable insight into God’s Word, the world, and how to live for Christ in the world, and we can pass on those life-tested truths to others.

Psalm 77:11-12I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works.

As we age, we can look back and remember God’s past might works, giving us hope for the present.

Titus 2:4-5These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God.

This passage is directed to women, but the lesson is clear: Older men and women can teach biblical principles and life skills to the next generation.