Old age isn’t an easy time for most people but that doesn’t mean God has abandoned you, or that He doesn’t have a reason for keeping you here. God’s promise is true for every believer: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).

Instead of seeing each day as a burden, begin each morning by thanking God for giving you the gift of another day. Then approach it just like you would any other gift — expectantly, waiting to see what God has in store for you that day. Learn to thank Him for the small things He gives you, and take time also to look back over your life and thank Him for all He’s done for you. The Bible says, “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

In addition, ask God to make you a source of happiness to those around you — to the staff, to visitors, to those you see every day. All around you are people who are lonely and discouraged, and they need your friendship. Ask God to help you encourage them and tell them of Christ’s love.

Most of all, keep your eyes on heaven. Our time on this earth is brief, but heaven is forever. Even when life’s burdens press upon us we have hope, because of Christ’s death and resurrection. Never forget: “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17).