Though outwardly we are wasting away, inwardly we are being renewed day by day. - 2 Corinthians 4:16
Birthdays are big in our family. We like the whole package: special meal, birthday song, cake, balloons and presents. When my daughters were growing up, their parties were always themed according to their interests and their cakes were no exception. I made Mickey Mouse, Big Bird, and sand castle cakes, to name just a few. Each birthday was a bona fide celebration of a year successfully lived and the kickoff to another just beginning.
I’ve enjoyed a bounty of birthdays in my life so far. These days, they seem to come around more often than they used to. And, although I’m reminded of my age when I look in the mirror, incredibly I still think of myself as decades younger. Perhaps it’s because the Bible tells us that although our bodies are aging, our inner spirits aren’t getting any older! Inwardly, we are actually being renewed every day! Even when we are dealing with physical struggles—whether a passing virus or an ongoing disease or disability—our soul is not subject to the same malady. That’s why it’s possible to be strong in spirit even when we are physically weak and young at heart even in our elder years!
How’s that for a birthday present as you blow out yet another candle? God is ministering to and caring for our souls in a way that breathes renewed life into us each and every day! This is truly something to celebrate—maybe even with a slice of your favorite cake.
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
Knowing that our inward selves are being cared for and strengthened daily by the renewing work of the Holy Spirit, let that encourage and hearten you for the challenges you currently face and those yet to come.