Reaching the age of 70 is a milestone that few take lightly.
For some, it is a time of deep reflection—looking back on a life filled with experiences, relationships, and lessons learned.
For others, it brings a sense of gratitude for the years God has granted them.
Yet, turning 70 can also bring questions: What does the Bible say about aging?
How should one view this stage of life?
Is it a time to slow down, or does God still have a purpose for those who reach this age?
While the world may see 70 as the beginning of decline, Scripture presents a different perspective—one filled with wisdom, purpose, and a deeper relationship with God.
Let’s explore what the Bible teaches about reaching this significant milestone and how to embrace it with faith, joy, and purpose.
The Gift of Long Life in the Bible
Living to 70 is not something to take for granted.
The Bible acknowledges that life is fragile and fleeting, yet long life is often seen as a blessing from God.
Psalm 90:10 states, “Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.”
This verse, written by Moses, recognizes that reaching 70 is a normal lifespan for many people, though life is still temporary in the grand scheme of eternity.
In biblical times, long life was often associated with God’s favor and wisdom.
Proverbs 16:31 says, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.”
Rather than seeing aging as a burden, Scripture describes it as an honor—a visible sign of a life well-lived in faithfulness to God.
Throughout the Bible, we see examples of godly men and women who lived long lives filled with purpose.
Abraham was 75 when God called him to leave his home and follow His plan (Genesis 12:4).
Moses was 80 when God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 7:7).
These examples show that age does not disqualify anyone from being used by God.
Instead, it brings greater wisdom and experience to serve Him in new and meaningful ways.
A Time for Gratitude and Reflection
Turning 70 is an opportunity to reflect on all that God has done.
In Psalm 103:2, David reminds us, “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
This verse encourages believers to take time to remember God’s faithfulness over the years—His provision, His protection, and His unending grace.
Looking back, there may be moments of joy, seasons of hardship, and times when God’s presence was especially near.
Each of these experiences shapes a person’s faith and deepens their trust in God.
As people age, it can be easy to focus on what has been lost—health, abilities, or loved ones who have passed on.
Yet, the Bible teaches that gratitude is essential in every season of life.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Rather than dwelling on what is behind, this is a time to rejoice in the blessings that remain—family, friends, and most importantly, a relationship with God that continues to grow stronger.
The Role of Wisdom in Later Years
One of the greatest gifts of aging is the wisdom that comes with it.
Throughout Scripture, older individuals were respected for their wisdom and sought after for guidance.
Job 12:12 says, “Is not wisdom found among the aged?
Does not long life bring understanding?”
Reaching 70 means having lived through seasons of joy and struggle, learning valuable lessons along the way.
This wisdom is meant to be shared.
Titus 2:2-5 encourages older men and women to teach and encourage the younger generation, helping them grow in faith and godly living.
Rather than stepping back and believing their most valuable years are behind them, those who reach 70 should see themselves as mentors, guides, and sources of wisdom for those who are younger.
The world may promote the idea that older people should retire from significance, but the Bible teaches that age brings an even greater responsibility to lead, teach, and inspire.
Continuing to Serve God in New Ways
Some people believe that reaching 70 means slowing down and stepping aside, but the Bible presents a different view.
While physical limitations may increase with age, one’s ability to serve God never fades.
In Psalm 92:12-14, the righteous are described as trees that continue to bear fruit even in old age:
“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God.
They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”
This passage reminds believers that as long as they are alive, they have a purpose.
Even if energy levels are not what they used to be, God still provides ways to serve Him.
This may include mentoring younger believers, leading prayer groups, writing about faith experiences, encouraging others, or simply being a source of wisdom and support in the church and family.
There is no retirement from the Christian life.
Until the Lord calls someone home, there is always work to be done for His kingdom.
Facing the Future With Confidence
For some, turning 70 can bring fear or uncertainty.
Questions about the future, health concerns, or worries about what is to come may begin to arise.
But the Bible offers assurance that God is in control of every season of life.
Isaiah 46:4 provides comfort, saying, “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”
This promise reminds believers that God’s faithfulness does not fade with age.
He is the same God who provided in the past, and He will continue to provide in the years ahead.
Jesus also spoke about the importance of trusting God rather than worrying about the future.
In Matthew 6:34, He said, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Aging is not something to fear but something to embrace with faith.
For those who trust in Christ, the best is yet to come.
This life is temporary, but eternity with God is forever.
John 14:2-3 assures believers, “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
This is the ultimate hope—life does not end at 70, 80, or 90.
For those in Christ, life continues in the presence of God for eternity.
Final Thoughts
Turning 70 is a milestone that should be met with gratitude, wisdom, and purpose.
The Bible teaches that old age is not a time to fade into the background but a time to reflect on God’s goodness, share wisdom, and continue serving Him.
Rather than focusing on what is lost, believers should focus on what remains—God’s presence, His promises, and the opportunity to finish the race strong.
The years ahead are not a burden but a blessing.
Each day is a gift, and every moment is an opportunity to bring glory to God.
Aging is not about decline—it is about growing deeper in faith, leaving a legacy of wisdom, and preparing for the eternal joy that awaits in God’s kingdom.
