Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone ... Even when I am old and grey, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come. Psalm 71:9,18, NIV

 

In this series, we have travelled through the seasons of life – the spring of youth and hope, the summer of fullness and growth, the autumn of transition and, finally, the winter season of our existence. Winter brings cold, bare trees and short days – often a time associated with farewells, loss, or physical and emotional fragility. For many, it is a season of declining strength and increasing dependence. Yet, even in this time, there is room for faith, hope and prayer. In fact, it is precisely then that we need it most.

 

In Psalm 71:9, we hear the heartfelt cry of someone in the winter of life: “Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone.” It is not a prayer of fear, but an honest request – a plea to God not only to be present but to remain faithful, as he has always been.

 

When the body begins to weaken, the Spirit reminds us of the One who has always been faithful. The psalmist had been through many stormy seasons and, now, in his old age, he clings to the same God who has carried him since his youth. This prayer becomes an anchor, not just for his circumstances but for his soul.

 

Perhaps you find yourself in that winter season right now. You feel your energy waning and certain dreams seem out of reach. You experience loss – of loved ones, of health, of your role or sense of meaning. But the Word of God reminds you: you are not alone. The Lord who formed you in the womb is the same One who will carry you into old age (Isaiah 46:4).

 

Pray along with the psalmist: “Lord, do not forsake me. My strength may fail, but your strength remains. Your love endures, your presence brings comfort. In my winter season, be my fire-warm presence, my light in the dark days, my hope for tomorrow.”

 

God’s faithfulness does not end at any stage of life. He walks with us, even when the world slows down and becomes quieter. Your life is still precious to him. Your prayers still carry power. Your story still holds value. And your faith – especially now – shines a light that can warm others in their own cold seasons.

 

May you stand firm today in this truth: you are not forgotten. You are carried and even in winter, God brings new mercies every morning.

 

Prayer: Lord, you who have carried me since my youth, today I cry out to you from my winter season. My strength is fading, but you remain strong. Please do not forsake me, do not leave me when I feel fragile. Be my light in the dark days, my warmth in the cold moments, my hope when everything slows and quietens down. Remind me that I am still your child, that my life still has value in your eyes. Thank you for your unchanging faithfulness and for your love that surrounds me today, tomorrow and always. Amen.