TODAY IN THE WORD
A medical study published earlier this year suggests that the reason people tend to awaken earlier as they get older is not because, as popularly thought, their natural sleep-wake cycle has changed with age. Instead, these researchers say healthy people, young and old, share the same daily cycle of about 24 hours, 11 minutes. In other words, what the human body considers a day basically doesn't change with age. Other factors are to blame for the sleep disorders older people often experience.

Most seniors would welcome news about a physical trait they share in common with healthy young people. Well, here's good news about a spiritual trait young and old can share alike: renewed strength in the inner person as a gift from God.

That's the bottom line of today's study, and a theme we'll encounter often over the next few days as we consider this season of faith. The road that leads to renewed strength begins at a familiar point: heartfelt praise of God.

David's praise in this psalm had a definite target. He wanted to review God's endless benefits to those who trust Him. In fact, we're only scratching the surface of Psalm 103 today. It's packed with reasons for praise.

The blessings begin with God's forgiveness that erases our sins and diseases parallel terms for the spiritual ailments that drag us down. He not only rescues us from the pit of sin, but adds the crown of His love (v. 4), that great Old Testament term referring to His loyal, never-ending love. And God adds to these His compassion, or 'tender mercies.'

David also says the Lord satisfies our desires with good things (v. 5), a reference to the kind of satisfaction we can enjoy when our deepest desires are for the things of God. There's a maturity to this kind of 'wanting' that takes a person far beyond the level of a childlike wish list full of things.

Notice the connection between the right kind of desires and the promise of renewed spiritual strength. We need to synchronize our desires with God 'so that' (v. 5) we will be satisfied with His fulfillment and learn to find our joy in Him. The picture of a soaring eagle said it all for David. You can soar spiritually no matter what your age is!

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TODAY ALONG THE WAY
We know that seniors are well represented among our Today in the Word readers, and we thank God for every one of them.

For those of you in this age category, why not ask God for renewed strength today to share your much-needed wisdom and perspective with family, friends, and fellow believers at your church? And if you know an older believer who holds a special place in your life, make it a point to show your appreciation before the week is over.

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