81 Lessons I've Learned on My Way to 81

As I celebrate my 81st birthday on Thursday, July 23, 2026, I reflect on the many lessons life has taught me—lessons shaped by faith, forgiveness, love, and experience. I’ve encountered joy and pain, success and setbacks, but through it all, God has been faithful, and I have been as obedient as I could have been.

I’m honored to share 81 Life Lessons I’ve learned over eight decades—each one supported by a powerful Bible verse. May they uplift, guide, and encourage you, no matter how old you are or what season of life you’re in.

Spiritual Growth (Lessons 1-15)

1. God’s timing is always perfect. Ecclesiastes 3:1
2. Prayer changes things—and me. Philippians 4:6-7
3. God’s Word is the final authority. 2 Timothy 3:16
4. My faith has grown through my trials. James 1:2-4
5. The Holy Spirit is my constant helper. John 14:26
6. Worship is not just music; it’s my lifestyle. Romans 12:1
7. God's grace is truly sufficient for me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
8. Forgiveness has set me free. Matthew 6:14-15
9. I am never too old to grow spiritually. Psalm 92:12-14
10. I grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord. Peter 3:18
11. Jesus is the best friend I’ve ever had. John 15:15
12. Quiet time with God fuels me every day. Mark 1:35
13. I live by the Bible, my living document. Hebrews 4:12
14. God listens, even when I whisper. Psalm 34:17
15. Trusting God brings me peace. Isaiah 26:3

Reflection

I am a biblical theologian and Bible teacher. I teach others what I have learned. These lessons remind me to pray without ceasing and to read something from the Bible every single day. I have built a strong foundation and grown spiritually by doing those things over eight decades.

Love and Relationships (Lessons 16-30)

16. Jesus is the lover of my soul. Jeremiah 31:3
17. All that I do, I do it in love. 1 Corinthians 16:14.
18. Healthy boundaries are biblical. Proverbs 4:23
19. Respect is mutual. Romans 12:10
20. Not every relationship is meant to last forever. Ecclesiastes 3:6
21. Nothing is impossible with God. Matthew 1:37
22. Kindness speaks louder than judgment. Ephesians 4:32
23. Some friendships are for a season. Proverbs 17:17
24. Family is a gift—but not always easy. 1 Timothy 5:8
25. Bitterness blocks blessings. Hebrews 12:15
26. Honesty fosters intimacy. Ephesians 4:25
27. It’s okay to walk away in peace. Romans 12:18
28. Loving myself is not selfish. Mark 12:31
29. I treat people the way I want to be treated. Luke 6:31
30. Love covers a multitude of sins.1 Peter 4:8

Reflection

I remember my mother telling me to do right, and right would follow me. I tell that to my children and grandchildren because that is a Kingdom Principle. As my mother told me, I tell you: "Do right and right will follow you." It is similar to what the psalmist said: "Surely, goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life" (Psalm 23:6).

My Calling and Ministry (Lessons 31-45)

31. My ministry began at home. 1 Timothy 3:5
32. God equipped me and called me. Hebrews 13:20-21
33. Teaching is a sacred responsibility. James 3:1
34. It’s not about titles; it’s about testimony. Revelation 12:11
35. Not everyone has accepted my calling. John 15:18-19
36. I don’t need a pulpit to preach. Matthew 28:19-20

37. Things of God will happen "In Due Season." Galatians 6:9

38. Whatever I do, I do it for the Lord. Colossians 3:23
39. I serve with gladness, not grudges. Psalm 100:2
40. My servant’s heart is a powerful witness. Matthew 23:11
41. I let God fight my battles. Exodus 14:14
42. God uses me even though I am far from being perfect. 2 Corinthians 4:7
43. Ministry is more than on Sunday mornings. Colossians 3:23-24
44. Every stage of my life has served a purpose. Romans 8:28
45. My anointing has grown through my brokenness. Psalm 51:17

Reflection

Ministry is a calling that requires faithfulness and humility. I let the Lord lead me based on His Word. I consider teaching and preaching a sacred privilege. As I talk the talk, I also try to walk the walk. As the psalmist says, "God's word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path" (Psalm 119:105). I wouldn't be able to do that if I didn't know God's Word is what lights my path.

Number 37 is the initial sermon I preached on December 5, 1995, entitled "In Due Season." It was acknowledging my call to ministry.

Wisdom and Life Lessons (Lessons 46-65)

46. Every one of my seasons had a divine purpose. Ecclesiastes 3:1
47. Worry wastes my peace. Matthew 6:34
48. What I feed grows, so I try to choose wisely. Galatians 6:7-8
49. My silence often speaks the loudest. Proverbs 17:28
50. I can’t pour from an empty cup. Matthew 11:28
51. My mistakes are part of my learning. Proverbs 24:16
52. I use time wisely because it is a precious resource. Ephesians 5:15-16
53. I try to be patient and not passive. Romans 12:12
54. The truth will eventually come to light. Luke 8:17
55. My age is not a barrier—it’s a blessing. Job 12:12
56. I still have dreams. Joel 2:28
57. My peace is better than my being right. Matthew 5:9
58. Joy is a decision. Nehemiah 8:10
59. Every one of my scars has a story. Isaiah 61:3
60. God wastes nothing, not even my pain. Romans 8:28
61. My past has been my teacher, not my prison. Isaiah 43:18-19
62. Growing has often been painful, but it’s been worth it. John 15:2
63. I keep learning because I stay curious. Proverbs 1:5
64. My humility is my strength under control. Philippians 2:3-4
65. I am content, but not complacent. Philippians 4:11-13

Reflection

Life teaches us valuable lessons when we are willing to listen and obey the Word of God. These lessons have shaped me and reminded me to do right, even when no one is watching. Wisdom comes from experience and God’s Word. Therefore, I keep seeking both. I pray these insights encourage you to live with intention and walk boldly according to God’s plan for you. That's what I have tried to do most of my eight decades.

Gratitude and Legacy (Lessons 66-80)

66. In everything, I give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
67. Thankfulness is my constant habit. Psalm 100:4
68. My legacy includes those I have lifted. Proverbs 13:22
69. My life is the best sermon I have ever preached. 2 Corinthians 3:2
70. I speak blessings over others and myself instead of curses. Proverbs 18:21
71. My words matter; therefore, I use them carefully. Ephesians 4:29
72. Peace of mind is my true wealth. Philippians 4:7
73. Because I love God, I can love others. Matthew 25:37-40
74. A good name is better than riches. Proverbs 22:1
75. Quiet influence is powerful. Matthew 5:16
76. I give out of my need. Luke 6:38
77. I don't serve God to be seen. Matthew 6:1
78. I try to live so others can see Christ in me. Galatians 2:20
79. I want my light to outlive my life. Matthew 5:14
80. The best is yet to come! 1 Corinthians 2:9

Reflection

Gratitude is a daily practice that has blessed me (the giver) and others (the receivers). As I reflect on my life, I am thankful for God’s guidance and the legacy I am leaving. I pray that people have learned valuable lessons from me as I have learned valuable lessons from God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit who dwells within me. I am always mindful that others are watching my example. Therefore, I let my light shine so others may see my good works and glorify God, which is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).

Room For One More Year

As I enter Year 81, I have meditated on what my focus will be for the entire year. My mantra, affirmation, and commitment:

"I choose joy!"

When life gets hard, I choose joy.
When roads seem long, I choose joy.
When mountains are too steep to climb, I choose joy.
When storms come, I choose joy.
When the world turns against me, I choose joy.
No situation will ever ruin me
Because I choose joy! ---Rev. Margaret Minnicks