Retirement is a new concept, especially when compared to how the Bible speaks of it. Retirement is nowadays viewed as a time to slow life down and enjoy our years of hard work that has allowed us to provide for ourselves and our families. But what does the Bible say about this? Can we find Biblical references that support our modern idea of retirement?
The Bible does not explicitly mention “retirement,” but several verses may suggest that it is encouraged, such as Ecclesiastes 12:1: “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth . . .” according to author, Billy Graham. This may suggest that it is not just when we are younger that we are to think of God and show his love, it is when we “retire” and move away from a life of productivity that it is best to think of Him. It is in the quiet seasons of our lives, when we are no longer actively producing, that His grace and comfort can be felt more peaceably.
In Deuteronomy 26:14, we hear the famous phrase “you shall enjoy the fruit of your labor.” This could be interpreted to mean that our hard work throughout our lives should be rewarded. In this world, retirement is often the reward for years of good, hard work. This verse has been said to suggest that we should enjoy the work we have done, even in our advanced years. It may mean that while you are still able to enjoy your life, you should not be working all the time. Enjoy your fruit, it is your reward.
In Leviticus 25:1-7 we read about the importance of the sabbatical year, where farmers shall let their fields lie fallow every seventh year in order to allow the land to recover and replenish. This is an example of God himself setting an example of rest, even telling the people of his own contentment with inactivity itself: “Take rest, O my soul” (Psalm 62:5). Some may take this to mean that God was comfortable with periods of rest, and perhaps even encouraged them in his people.
Yet when it comes to earning a livable income in retirement, the idea of not working seems to contradict Jehovah’s opinions of livelihood and productivity. Proverbs 16:26 says “The laborer’s appetite works for him, for his hunger drives him on,” suggesting that work should be an ongoing part of a person’s life, regardless of age. If retirees can use their time productively, they can still experience the satisfaction and comfort of work, even if in a more relaxed state. In this way, retirees can enjoy their years of rest, whilst still realizing their talents and achieving a sense of purpose.
Social Security
When it comes to the question of God’s views on security in retirement, there are mixed opinions from theologians and pastors. The Bible speaks of communal responsibility and this could be seen to be in line with the security offered to retirees through Social Security. In Matthew 25:31-45, Jesus speaks of the responsibility of taking care of the least of these, and in this way of thinking, those in retirement may be classed in this group. Social Security could be argued to provide some form of Godly comfort to those who have uprooted their lives and need a little extra support.
Indeed, Paul in his first letter to Timothy 5: 8, urges people to take care of their relatives who are in need, who have no one else. This could include those in retirement, who may have worked their lives but now find themselves needing a little extra help. Both verses could point to the idea that God may have intended those at the later stages of life to have some form of security, in that he has put the responsibility to help the elderly onto their community.
The Bible’s Advice For A Happy Retirement
The Bible offers a few points that could be seen as advice for those retiring. For instance, Paul writes in his letter to the Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This could be taken to suggest that even in retirement, God will give us the strength and ability to do what needs to be done. God is the ultimate strength, and if we call upon Him, he willstrengthen us, even in our later years.
In addition, Ecclesiastes 9:7 states that “Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart,” which may suggest that part of retirement should be enjoyed with pleasure. It suggests that no matter what our age, we should enjoy life and be content with what we have. As such, it is clear that God encourages us to be content with our work and enjoy our lives during our retirement.
The Value of Retirement
So what does the Bible say about retirement? The Bible doesn’t explicitly refer to it, but it does suggest that God is supportive of a period of rest, inactivity and pleasure. From the various verses available to us, it is clear that God is in favour of finding satisfaction and contentment after a life of hard work and productivity. It doesn’t tell us exactly what we should do in our retirement, but it encourages us to find joy in it.
The Bible also speaks of the importance of taking care of those in need, such as our elderly. Through such verses, we are reminded of our communal responsibility to ensure our elderly have something a little extra to enjoy their retirement through something like Social Security. God encourages us to take care of the least of these, helping those in our society who need it, this could include those who are retired or nearing that stage.
Retirement Thanks To Social Security
So how does Social Security fit in with the Biblical view of retirement? It can be argued that Social Security is helping to complete the Biblical responsibility of taking care of the elderly. By providing for those in retirement, it ensures that we do not forget about those at the later stages of life. God himself has written about taking joy in old age and destitute poverty, meaning that those of us who are fortunate enough to be able to enjoy our retirement can thank Social Security for having the security to do so.
Making the Most Out Of Retirement
For those of us who have enjoyed a successful career, retirement is a time to relax and enjoy the years that have passed. We should be reminded of the blessings that have come our way. We should thank God for our lives, and any successes we have had in our working lives. We can also use this time to show love to those in need, or to spread the gospel of God, or simply to enjoy the small pleasures and beauty of the world around.
Retirement is a time to find and receive God’s comfort and blessings, the Bible tells us so. We can find solace in the verses that remind us to take joy in our lives and to appreciate the fruits of our hard labor. It encourages us to remember God, take care of our communities, and to be thankful for the opportunities and security that are provided for us. And in this way, we can make the most out of our retirement in our older years, living in peace and contentment.
Financial Freedom In Retirement
While the Bible encourages us to take solace, joy, and peace in our retirement, the more practical issue of financial freedom is also important. Although Biblical passages may point to the idea of God providing comfort and productivity in our old age, they do not necessarily refer to the issue at hand-security in retirement. If a retiree is to be as content as possible in their retirement years, they would benefit greatly by having financial freedom in their later years.
Various schemes exist for those looking for financial security in their retirement, such as 401(k)s and IRAs. With careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to save a comfortable amount of money over the long term, allowing for the finances needed in old age. This is the best way to ensure the financial freedom necessary for a happy and contented retirement, allowing for the gratification of the spiritual side of retirement that is so often discussed within the Bible.
Retirement Communities of Faith
When it comes to retirement, what better way to enjoy our years of rest than in the company of Brothers and Sisters in Christ? Christian Retirement Communities provide the ideal environment for a faith-filled retirement. Here, retirees can share in the spiritual blessings that retirement brings, and make friends with their peers. They can enjoy the fellowship of other faith-filled retirees, whilst also taking advantage of the services, amenities, and spiritual gatherings offered by these communities.
The Bible encourages faith to be held throughout our lives, right up until the end, and Christian Retirement Communities are the best way to ensure our faith is part of our daily lives, even in our respective golden years. With the spiritual and physical safety and comfort provided by these communities, retirees can enjoy the peace and contentment that comes from being among their own.
Fulfilling Retirement Years
The Bible does not outwardly mention retirement, but it does offer verses that could point to its acceptance. We read of our obligation to those in need, those who have worked their lives but now need extra support. We are promised joy and contentment in old age, and reminded of the importance of communal responsibility and faith. Overall, the Bible encourages us to enjoy our retirement, and make the most of the years of rest that come our way.
Although the Bible does not provide exact advice as to what retirees should do with their time, we are reminded of the generosity of God and its role in providing for those in need. Whether through income from Social Security, careful planning and budgeting, or joining a Christian Retirement Community, the Bible reminds us that there are ways to fulfil our retirement years, and still enjoy what the world has to offer.
