Biblical Reflections · Christian Living

Is Aged Wine Better?

4 min read, approximately

Luke 5:38-39
“New wine must be put into new wineskins, and both are preserved. No one who drinks the old immediately wants the new, for they say: The old is better.”

Aged?

Surely we have heard someone say, “Aged wine is better.” The dictionary defines ‘aged’ as something old… But if we explore the word, we find more than a simple definition.

For example, an aged wine has been through the right temperature and ventilation conditions, proper supervision, and time—a substantial process. Just as wine develops its best flavor through processes that may take years, you and I are no exception in God’s hands.

1, 2, and 3 for Maturing Like Wine

Let us see, in the light of God’s Word, how we can develop the flavor of aged wine in our lives:

\1. Through a Process

It is true that no one said it would be easy, but:

“… we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

God always has a purpose for us! So for all of us who love God and have been, are going, or will go through a process, it will serve to bring out that aged wine within us.

“In this you rejoice, even though now, for a little while, if necessary, you must suffer various trials. These test your faith, which is far more precious than gold that perishes even though tested by fire, so that it may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. You love him without having seen him; although you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with indescribable and glorious joy, receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:6-9)

Remember that without the right temperature and ventilation, wine can spoil, easily develop mold, or end up tasting very bitter. We do not want to end up like that, do we? Let us live through and enjoy the process.

\2. Through Prayer

We Are Entirely Dependent on God!

“Acknowledge that the Lord is God. He made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture.” (Psalms 100:3)

Therefore, we must understand that we need God’s direction in every area:

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever remains in me, and I in them, bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

We have a direct line to the Lord through prayer, and it is truly sad when we do not use it. So however great or small the matter seems, let us address it by asking God for wisdom, which he will surely give generously and without reproach (James 1:5). Do we give God the opportunity to keep checking how our wine is developing? Surely he will say, “Please, let me know”

“Call to me, and I will answer you and show you great and hidden things that you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3)

\3. Through Time

Just as wine’s flavor improves as time passes, we gain wisdom and experience through God’s guidance in the processes we undergo over time. God is wise and knows when the time is right. Therefore, we must be:

“… convinced of this: the one who began a good work in you will bring it to completion until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)

Keep in mind that if wine is taken out too early, it can taste bitter. So let us not become impatient:

“Why are you downcast, my soul, and troubled within me? Hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my salvation and my God.” (Psalms 42:5)

Conclusion

So… are we working hand in hand with God in:

• our life
• our character
• our life plan
• our relationship as a couple
• raising our children
• our jobs
• our finances
• our ministry
• our problems
• …
  To develop aged wine… because the aged wine is the best?

_**Remember to stop by the Songbook

May God continue to bless you, and may you continue to have an excellent day in Christ Jesus!