Seek guidance from Jesus after retirement

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Q: For years I looked forward to my retirement, and I did all the right things to prepare for it financially. Well, I’ve been retired about a year now, and to be honest I’m really bored. I guess money isn’t the whole story, is it?

— P.G.

A: No, money is not “the whole story” (as you put it), whether we’re talking about retirement or life in general. This is one reason why the Bible says, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have” (Hebrews 13:5).

This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t plan ahead and do what we can to prepare financially for our retirement years, of course. It’s better to sacrifice now than to be left penniless later. The Bible urges us to be hard working and thrifty, and if possible set aside some of our resources for the future. The book of Proverbs in the Old Testament points out that even insects save for their future — and so should we. If we don’t, “poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man” (Proverbs 6:11).

But as you’ve discovered, there’s far more to retirement than money. Suddenly life changes; you no longer see the same people, and your days are no longer filled with work. How, then, will you spend your days? Sadly, I’ve found, many people never think about this, and they end up (as you have) bored and adrift.

Instead, turn to Christ and ask him what he wants you to do with your time. Don’t waste these years; instead seek God’s will for your future. Seek out a Bible study where you can deepen your faith; volunteer to help others in your community; explore a short-term mission trip. Life is never boring with God! Send your queries to “My Answer,” c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit billygraham.org.