I have often heard Proverbs 16:31 quoted in reference to older or "mature" adults, suggesting that with age comes wisdom -- "The silver-haired head is a crown of glory." However, that is only the first half of that proverb. The second half of the verse reads -- "if it is found in the way of righteousness." Ahhh! There is a bit of a difference in meaning now!
Fact is, wisdom is not simply the result of aging. It is sad to say, but "there is nothing more foolish than an old fool" (I just made that up - cool!). Experience is a good teacher, and often the older person has some very insightful things to share, but as Solomon has been teaching his son throughout these proverbs, real wisdom comes only from God. Therefore, the wisdom that accompanies age is quite limited.
It indeed is sad to meet a person who has a few miles on him that foolishly rejects the Lord Jesus and the truth of God's Word. There is so much benefit to finding the Lord as a young man or woman and living a committed life for Him . . . a sense of purpose and direction, strength for meeting the challenges of daily living, and assurance that this life is not all there is. It is hard for me to imagine life any other way!
Whether you are young or old, however, the wise thing is to place your trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sin and the gift of eternal life. The greatest crown of glory is the one we receive from the Heavenly Father upon our entry into eternity at which time we will lay them at the feet of Jesus in adoration and acknowledgement of Him as the glorious Lamb of God.
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