The Bible often stresses being careful about who you associate with on a regular basis. As we grow older we can get “set in our ways” and believe that wisdom is only acquired through years of experience. Actually, unless its God’s wisdom, nothing could be further from the truth. And God frequently talks to us through other people.
But Which People?
First, we should talk to people who know the Lord. But also (and I’m tempted to say “second,” but there are a number of others.), talk to the next generation and the previous generation. Human mental capacity reaches its peak sometime around the late twenties to mid thirties, according to one article by Askmen.Com. However according to research, a more comprehensive answer involves the ages where each individual achieves a balance among one’s peak ability to absorb new information (early childhood), one’s peak ability to produce ideas and concepts (which lasts for a lifetime, but is impeded by society) and one’s peak ability to apply ideas through both experience and critical thinking (late 20s to early 30′s).
Thus, researchers believe that humans normally reach their peak mental ability somewhere between 30 and 35.
Therefore…
Never stop learning. Carefully observe that 3 to 5 year old grandchild or great grandchild, resist societal pressures to conform to this world (actually a biblical concept, explained below) and listen to those in their late 20s and early 30s who are applying their learned ideas and are first getting a firm hold on their chosen best careers. Notice that producing new ideas, and exhibiting the wisdom to produce ideas and concepts, can come from those being educated after 60! Those over 60 should stimulate their ability to apply ideas by communicating with knowledgeable young professionals in their late 20s and early 30s.
From preschool to graduate school, we most often learn from others. So why should learning after 60 be any different? It shouldn’t. But now you have the added advantage of understanding which people to listen to and exchange ideas with, allowing you to maximize your wealth of experience, and then move toward real wisdom and intelligence.
So… Communicate With Them!
Whenever possible, communicate with young minds. And the young minds most free from the “societal pressures” mentioned above are those who know the Lord Jesus Christ. Scripture says plainly, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, …” (Romans 12:2) Then, you will know “… what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (the end of Romans 12:2) Those words are describing real wisdom and intelligence, which most often comes from others – especially “Young New Minds” who know the Lord!
As always, your comments and questions are most welcome. Thank you for reading!
