This word surprised me this week! I came across it near the end of a book that finishes up a sci-fi series. Sci-fi though it may be, it was a pretty easy read.
Except for this one word that made me immediately search for its meaning.
Hale: sound; strong and healthy (especially an elderly person); able-bodied; robust
Carrying strength and vitality into our latter years requires intentionality. We have to keep moving, not letting our muscles and energy reserves fade away from disuse. At the same time we need to support our bodies with good nutrition and plenty of sleep.
These practices apply to our faith in Jesus as well. We may reach a spiritual age when we decide we’ve done enough and it’s time to spend our days resting in comfort, but complacency creeps in all too easily.
Don’t give in, friends! Stay strong in the faith!
Stay close to God, who is able to strengthen you.
“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong“ (Ephesians 3:16-17).
“We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father” (Colossians 1:11-12a).
“But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:3).
“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10).
Be strong for yourself and for others.
“So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong“ (Hebrews 12:12-13 NLT).
“Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14).
You are never too old to be strong — stay hale, friends! 😀
Check out my Wednesday Words vocabulary expansion project, and join in the fun!
Write a post using the word “hale,” then leave a link to your post in the comments below. I’d love to read what you write!
Lauri Hawley 