9 Do not cast me off in the time of old age; Do not forsake me when my strength fails. 10  For my enemies speak against me; And those who lie in wait for my life take counsel together, 11  Saying, "God has forsaken him; Pursue and take him, for there is none to deliver him." (Psalm 71:9-11, NKJV)

How a person treats the aged exposes that person's reverence for God. Israel was told to "rise before the gray headed and honor the presence of an old man, and fear your God; I am the Lord" (Lev. 19:32). Far too many cast off the elderly when they become a burden (real or perceived). Far too many prey on the aged by leveraging their fears and anxieties against them in order to profit from their weakness. The Lord is an avenger against such wickedness. He will not forsake the aged who rely on Him. Like this psalmist, the elderly are encouraged to continue trusting in the Lord (Psalm 71:1-7). The aged deserve our honor, respect and compassion; not our impatience, insensitivity and harshness. So, respect the elderly. One day, by God's grace, you will be aged.