The Hoary Head
A hoary head is a crown of glory when accompanied by a holy heart and a life of righteousness.
Thomas Brooks emphasizes that a gray head symbolizes glory only when it is paired with a righteous heart. He contrasts the beauty of a young person living uprightly with the honor of an elderly person who walks in righteousness. Brooks warns that an old age devoid of holiness is a curse rather than a blessing, leading to scorn and contempt. The true honor lies in the combination of age and sanctity, reflecting God's favor and wisdom.
Text
"The hoary head is a crown of glory--if it is found
in the way of righteousness." Proverbs 16:31
A white head, accompanied with a holy heart,
makes a man truly honorable.
There are two glorious sights in the world: the one
is, a young man walking in his uprightness; and the
other is, an old man walking in ways of righteousness.
A hoary head, when coupled with an unsanctified heart,
is rather a curse than a blessing. When the head is as
white as snow, and the soul as black as hell, God usually
gives up such to the greatest scorn and contempt.
Sermon Outline
- The Glory of a Hoary Head
- The Contrast of a White Head
- Two Glorious Sights
- The Curse of an Unsantified Heart
- A white head with a black soul
- God gives up such to scorn and contempt
Key Quotes
“A white head, accompanied with a holy heart, makes a man truly honorable.” — Thomas Brooks
“There are two glorious sights in the world: the one is, a young man walking in his uprightness; and the other is, an old man walking in ways of righteousness.” — Thomas Brooks
Application Points
- As we age, it's essential to maintain a holy heart and continue walking in the ways of righteousness.
- A life of righteousness is more important than physical appearance or age.
- God values a heart that is sanctified and holy, regardless of age or appearance.