Radiant Glory Of Love

By Joan Adegbie-Sanusi

Retirement is one of life’s great transitions, and as Christian women, we are called to approach it with faith, wisdom, and purpose. While it may seem like an end to active secular work, retirement is actually a new beginning—an opportunity to embrace a life of deeper spiritual fulfillment, service, and rest in God’s promises. At our recent Christian women’s event, The Female Minister of Lively Hope, we explored how to prepare for this season with both practical and biblical wisdom.

Trusting God’s Plan for Every Season

The first step in preparing for retirement is recognizing that it is part of God’s divine plan. Proverbs 16:3 reminds us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Retirement does not mean an end to purpose—it is a shift in focus toward what God has in store for us next.

Many of us may experience mixed emotions about stepping away from the workforce. Will we have enough financial resources? How will we fill our time meaningfully? The good news is that God has already prepared a path for us. We are called to embrace this season with confidence, knowing that He is our provider and sustainer.

Financial Stewardship and Retirement Preparation

As we transition into retirement, financial preparedness is crucial. The Bible offers timeless wisdom on managing resources effectively:

• Budgeting for Retirement – Luke 14:28: “For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost?” Creating a retirement budget ensures that we are financially prepared for this new phase of life.
• Avoiding Debt – Proverbs 22:7: “The borrower is slave to the lender.” Striving to reduce outstanding debt before retirement grants us financial freedom and peace of mind.
• Saving and Investing Wisely – Ecclesiastes 11:2: “Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what disaster may come upon the land.” Diversifying income sources and maintaining a retirement savings plan are key to long-term financial stability.
• Planning for Generosity – 2 Corinthians 9:7: Even in retirement, we are called to be generous stewards of our time, resources, and wisdom.

Understanding the Financial Reality

• 32% of Canadians aged 45-64 have nothing saved for retirement.
• 53% do not know if they are saving enough.
• Women often live longer than men, making financial planning even more critical.
• Canadians estimate they need $756,000 for a comfortable retirement, yet the average savings is only $184,000.

Personal Financial Strategy & Financial Needs Analysis

To ensure a secure retirement, every woman should consider a Personal Financial Strategy that includes:

1. Retirement Budgeting – List all anticipated expenses, both essential (housing, healthcare, food) and discretionary (travel, hobbies).
2. Debt Reduction Plan – Prioritize paying off high-interest debt before retirement.
3. Income Sources Diversification – Explore options like pension plans, government benefits (CPP, OAS, GIS), personal savings, and investments.
4. Emergency Fund – Save at least 6-12 months’ worth of expenses to cover unexpected costs.
5. Tax-Efficient Savings – Utilize RRSPs, TFSAs, and other tax-advantaged accounts to maximize retirement income.
6. Legacy Planning – Consider estate planning, charitable giving, and leaving a financial inheritance in alignment with biblical stewardship.

Staying Healthy and Active

The Bible encourages us to take care of our bodies, as they are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Staying physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy is an essential part of thriving in retirement.

• Physical Health – Isaiah 40:31: “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and preventive healthcare are important for maintaining vitality.
• Mental and Emotional Well-Being – Proverbs 17:22: “A cheerful heart is good medicine.” Engaging in hobbies, socializing, and lifelong learning contribute to a fulfilling life post-retirement.
• Preventive Healthcare – Proverbs 27:12: “The prudent see danger and take refuge.” Regular health checkups and planning for medical needs ensure that we are proactive about our well-being.

Finding New Purpose and Serving Others

Retirement is not a time to withdraw but an opportunity to give back. Titus 2:3-5 encourages older women to mentor and teach younger women, sharing wisdom and experience. Whether through ministry, volunteering, or mentoring, we can continue to make a difference.

Psalm 92:14 reminds us, “They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.” God’s call on our lives does not expire with retirement. Instead, He invites us to a new mission—one of mentorship, discipleship, and service.

Embracing the Future with Faith

As we look forward to retirement, let us do so with hearts full of gratitude and trust. This is not a season to fear but one to celebrate. By preparing financially, staying healthy, and continuing to serve God’s kingdom, we can make the most of this next chapter.

Remember:

• Trust God’s plan (Proverbs 16:3)
• Be diligent in financial preparation (Proverbs 21:5, Genesis 41)
• Follow sound financial principles (Luke 14:28, Proverbs 22:7, Ecclesiastes 11:2, 2 Corinthians 9:7)
• Stay healthy and active (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Isaiah 40:31, Proverbs 17:22)
• Find purpose in serving others (Titus 2:3-5, Ephesians 2:10)
• Stay spiritually active and fruitful (Psalm 92:14)

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the journey You have led us through and for the season of retirement that lies ahead. Grant us wisdom to prepare well, peace to embrace change, and joy to continue serving You. May our retirement years be filled with Your presence, purpose, and provision. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Conclusion

Retirement is not about slowing down—it is about shifting our focus to God’s continued calling. As Christian women, we are ministers of lively hope, entrusted with the responsibility to walk in faith and encourage others. Let us embrace this season with confidence, knowing that God has already gone ahead to prepare the way.