One question many people deal with, in one form or another, is what their purpose is now. For instance, someone who worked for decades in a career may wonder who they even are when they step out of that role and into the perceived leisure of retirement. And if you're used to spending a lot of your time caring for a larger home, you might feel at loose ends after moving into a smaller space.
For older adults of faith, finding purpose in retirement starts with a Biblical understanding of who — and whose — they are.
"So, whatever you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31
"Whatever you do" isn't limited to the things of the past. God doesn't call people of faith to steward their resources and shine their lights until they reach a certain age and can retire from these things. If you're a person of faith, the purpose you rise with each day matters, no matter what your age is, where you live or how the world defines you.
In addition to your life still mattering to God, living with purpose in retirement has some mental and physical health benefits. They can include:
Living with purpose in retirement doesn’t have to mean a packed calendar or big commitments. It’s about choosing meaningful ways to spend your time, connect with others and serve God in this season of life. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
You might help out with a local ministry, write notes of encouragement to neighbors, offer to pray for others or look for ways to engage in small acts of service. Even something like holding the door open for someone with mobility issues or picking up a coffee in the common area to drop off at a neighboring resident's apartment can make a big impact when you do it with sincere kindness and joy.
You have a lifetime of wisdom and faith to share. Even a casual conversation with a grandchild or a younger staff member in your community can be meaningful. If you're looking for more structured opportunities, some churches or schools offer intergenerational programs where your voice is welcomed and needed.
If you enjoy learning and growing in your faith, consider joining or starting a small Bible study group. It’s a great way to stay spiritually active while building deeper relationships with those around you. Many assisted living communities welcome resident-led devotionals and studies.
Creative hobbies like painting, sewing or writing can be a fulfilling way to express yourself and bring joy to others. You might also show hospitality by inviting neighbors for tea, organizing a puzzle table or helping new residents feel welcome in the community.
Purposeful living also means caring for your own well-being. That could mean taking a morning walk, learning something new, spending time in prayer or simply getting rest when you need it. When you nurture your mind, body and spirit, you're better equipped to pour into others.
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10
One of the challenges of transition is that it can be easy to "fall out of step." You might spend a good deal of time and energy on making this change. But once you hit the ground on the other side, you're no longer moving forward with your normal routine. Finding a new routine can be work, and some people put it off for a while. When they're ready to engage with purpose again, they find they seem to have no momentum to rely on.
If you're in a stalled season after a transition, consider these options for finding your next steps forward:
Have discussions with people you trust. Talk about your situation with loved ones or friends you trust, particularly those who have a strong relationship with the Lord. They may be able to recognize gifts in you that you haven't explored yet or opportunities for purpose you haven't yet seen.
