Did People in the Bible Ever Retire?

Q: I retired last year, and at first I really enjoyed it. But now I’m bored to death, and I know my wife wishes she could get me out of the house. Was I wrong to retire? Did people in the Bible ever retire? — K.R.

A: Some people in the Bible did retire; the Levites (who assisted in the Temple ceremonies) were required to retire from their responsibilities at the age of 50 (see Numbers 8:25). Farmers and other laborers, however, apparently worked as long as they could.

It wasn’t necessarily wrong for you to retire — but what was wrong was failing to plan how you’d spend your retirement. I don’t blame you; most people, I’ve found, don’t give much thought to it. They look forward to not working; they may have their financial plans in place; they even may have a hobby they want to pursue. But that’s as far as they get in their planning, and — like you — they end up bored. Perhaps your experience will encourage others who are nearing retirement to give it more thought — and prayer.

I added “and prayer” to that sentence deliberately — because God knows all about your situation, and He has a plan for your remaining years. Why not seek it? Perhaps He wants you to explore a part-time job, or take some classes you’ll enjoy. But God also wants to use you to help others, now that you have the time. What opportunities for service does your church offer? What mission projects could you join?

Don’t live just for yourself during these years; you’ll stay bored. Instead live for Christ, and ask Him to use you to bless others. The Bible says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23).

========

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.