Mustard Seed Daily Devotions
Listen to this devotion

How Many Candles?

In the Word

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you” (Isaiah 46:4a NIV).

Of the Word

The cake was smothered in candles to accurately commemorate Grandma’s milestone birthday. When the family gathered to sing, the youngest grandchild stared at the glowing cake and announced, “Wow! Grandma’s birthday is getting dangerous!”

As the number of candles increases for each of us, it can be surprising. We question, “Who is that old person looking at me in the mirror?” We see the proof of passing time in photo albums and clothing sizes; yet our minds want to argue the facts.

The loving Father of all ages reassures us, Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you (Isaiah 46:4a NIV). Aging can bring concerns about good health and financial security. That is when we remember we have a merciful Redeemer who controls all of our days. God has promised to sustain us at all times and to carry us through all circumstances. He wants us to entrust our life to Him. We can live each day in joyful service and confident hope.

Walking with my Lord

Lord of the Ages, let me be grateful for the blessings represented by each candle on my birthday cake. Help me be ever faithful to You in the coming year. In Jesus’ name. Amen.


Mustard Seed: Everyday Celebrations. Authors: Elaine Bickel and Jan Struck. 15/28 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40195

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Sign up to receive Mustard Seed Devotions by email