A writer for The Gospel Coalition, a Reformed evangelical publication, argues that midlife is a crossroads rather than a crisis. The essay, published on November 10, 2026, draws on a new book by Jared Wilson, an associate pastor at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in the United States. The author, who is 42, says middle age can be a season of deeper trust in Jesus and lasting influence on others.
What the essay says
The writer begins with a young grad student who asked him to mentor him. The student's request made the 42-year-old pause and reflect on his own stage of life. The author notes that some studies show self-reported happiness tends to bottom out around age 46. Depression and anxiety are also reported to peak near age 45.
Wilson's book, Good News for Midlife: Navigating Middle Age with Guts and Grace, names common pressures. These include empty nests, aging parents, health concerns, career questions and a sense that the best years are past. Wilson writes that midlife also offers chances to trust Jesus for personal, marital and spiritual growth.
The essay says the term "midlife crisis" became popular after psychoanalyst Elliott Jaques wrote about it in 1965. Recent studies cited in the piece suggest fewer than 20 percent of Americans go through a full crisis in these years.
Context
The writer says many people face a temptation to flee responsibility or start a new life. He describes one path as a road of empty promises, which he links to Proverbs 14:12. The other path, he says, involves stepping deeper into relationships and trusting God. The essay also cites 1 Corinthians 4:15, where Paul distinguishes many guides from few spiritual fathers. The author argues that many young men have online teachers but few spiritual fathers. He quotes Wilson saying that spiritual fatherhood includes shared time, meals and life together, not only teaching. The essay is an opinion and reflection piece from a denominational outlet within the Reformed evangelical tradition.
What to watch
The essay is not tied to a policy or event. Its author encourages middle-aged men to consider mentoring younger men and building a lasting legacy through steady faithfulness in relationships. Wilson's book is available as a resource for men in this season of life.
