Lengthen Your Life

George Beverly Shea, who sang at Billy Graham's gospel crusades for more than 60 years, turned 103 years old this past Wednesday. Shea was quoted as saying that his secret to long life is “the Lord, a good wife, and coffee.” That’s good advice!

People have questioned how the earliest patriarchs in the bible lived for hundreds of years. I’ve heard a couple possible explanations. One is that the atmosphere changed after Noah’s flood, which allowed for more of the sun’s ultraviolet rays to affect life on earth. Other ministers have suggested men speaking negative words have shortened lives. Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”

Nevertheless, believers who know their authority in Christ can live long lives if they desire to. Psalm 90:10 says we can claim a lifespan of at least seventy or eighty years. Genesis 6:3 has been interpreted to mean that men could live for up to 120 years. Despite that, many Christians including ministers have died at a young age. One reason for that is that some of them desired to be in heaven more than staying on the earth.

Aside from perhaps exercise and eating healthy foods, other factors that can contribute to longevity include obeying God’s word…

“That you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days…” - Deuteronomy 30:20

“My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.” - Proverbs 3:1-2

Valuing wisdom…

“Wisdom is with aged men, and with length of days, understanding.” - Job 12:12

“She [wisdom] is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare with her.  Length of days is in her right hand…” - Proverbs 3:15-16

And respecting our parents…

“‘Honor your father and mother’ which is the first commandment with promise: ‘that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.’” - Ephesians 6:2-3

Don’t let religious people tell you that it’s “your time to go” if the devil attacks you with disease or tries to snuff you out in an accident. Ask God to give you long life and fulfill everything He’s called you to do!

“With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation.” - Psalm 91:16

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