I just turned 40! 🎂
Welcome to midlife.
Honestly, I’m not sure how to feel about it.
It seems like a big deal.
Coincidentally, just a few weeks before my milestone birthday, I had the opportunity to dive into this treasure of a book:
If you're approaching midlife, or if you're already there and in need of a godly perspective, this book is one you'll definitely want to check out. Sarah Allen’s wisdom offers not just biblical insights, but practical guidance on how to navigate this season with grace, purpose, and a renewed sense of joy in God’s plan for your life. It’s a resource that can equip you to embrace midlife as a time of growth and fruitful living, rather than something to be feared or merely endured.
Content
Content
Purpose of the Book
In a world that tells us menopause is a problem to be solved or that aging can be fixed, we need to consider how God’s eternal wisdom helps us navigate our changing seasons and this book helps us do that.
Table of Contents
Introduction: My Story
1. What’s the Problem with Time Passing? Understanding why change hurts
2. What If? Dealing with regret and loss
3. Who Can Help Their Moods? Finding a way through distress
4. Who Cares What I Look Like? Coping with my changing face
5. How Can I Care for Them All? Managing the family sandwich
6. What Should I Do Now? Making the most of midlife
Conclusion: Why This Is Not the End
Summary
Throughout this concise book, the author delves into the multifaceted challenges of menopause and midlife, addressing issues such as fluctuating moods, processing grief, adapting to physical changes, and navigating the responsibilities of aging parents. Demonstrating God’s character as our anchor, she guides us through the stormy seas of change, offering us a beacon of hope.
My Take: Thoughts on Time and Invisibility
Time
I’ve always enjoyed productivity tips and tricks, finding satisfaction in maximizing the time I have. But when I think about this midlife season, there's a moment of panic as I realize I’m past the halfway point.
The author reassures us with these powerful words:
"Time is not in charge, Christ is. God is working out his great and good purposes in time in every tick of the clock and turn of the calendar page."
She further reminds us:
"Time is God’s gift for the joyous multiplication and cultivation of all good things. And all this abundant increase is for one even greater purpose: Christ’s own glory."
The Latin phrase Coram Deo has profoundly shaped my view of time and purpose. It means "in the presence of God." When I consider my life—my coming and going, my resting and doing—I realize that all of it is done in God’s presence, under His authority, and for His glory. This perspective brings purpose to every seemingly menial task, whether it’s laundry, dishes, spreadsheets, or relationships. It’s about being faithful in (sm)all things.
Time is not in charge—Christ is.
As I align my days with His purposes, I can live without regret, confident in God’s work in and through me for His greater purpose.
So, as we navigate the challenges and blessings of this stage of life, the question remains: How will we use the time God has given us to faithfully serve Him and others, knowing that every moment counts in His grand design?
Invisibility
In Chapter 4, what resonated with me wasn’t just the physical changes of midlife—like wrinkles and grey hair—but the emotional experience of feeling unseen.
I vividly recall this feeling when we transitioned back to life in Canada after our years of church planting overseas. The author points out this common experience among women in midlife—the sense of becoming invisible.
In our church, there has been a surge of new families and young couples, which is beautiful to witness. However, as the focus of church leadership naturally shifts to welcoming and connecting with those who are new, there’s a possibility that some of us might start to feel camouflaged against the walls of the church building.
This insight has prompted me to reflect deeply.
If we feel hidden now in midlife, what must it be like in the elderly years? It’s made me reconsider how I want to engage with our local church community and how I can help ensure that others know they are seen, loved, and valued as integral members of our community.
Serving in church ministries and joining a life group have been instrumental in building a sense of belonging and connectedness. In Chapter Six, the author offers practical wisdom on how to make the most of our midlife years through service, cultivating relationships, and keeping our eyes fixed on Christ.
I no longer fear the midlife years; instead, I want to embrace this season that God has given me. Rather than lamenting the inevitable changes, I’m committed to grounding myself in prayer and God’s word. This, I believe, will equip me to persevere, living out my days for God’s glory and the good of others.
My Recommendation
If you’re approaching, navigating, or deep into midlife, this book will be a source of encouragement. You might feel frustrated or alone in your struggles, but as you read, you'll discover that others share your experiences and that God’s faithfulness endures. I wholeheartedly give it a 5-star recommendation!
Quick Stats
# of Pages: 112
Level of Difficulty: Easy
My Rating: 5 stars
[Watch] From the Author
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Scriptures About Aging
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day (2 Cor. 4:16)
So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come (Ps 71:18)
Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save (Is. 46:4)
I said, ‘Let days speak, and many years teach wisdom.’ (Job 32:7)
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom (Ps. 90:12)
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*A big thanks to 10Publishing for the complimentary e-copy of this book and for the opportunity to post an honest review!