The Secret Of Long Life

Read Proverbs 13

The life of the godly is full of light and joy, but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out.

Proverbs 13:9

At Great-Grandma’s hundredth birthday celebration, someone inevitably asks, “How did you do it? What’s the secret to such a long life?” The answer will no doubt surprise you. Centenarians have been known to credit their longevity to everything from strawberry ice cream to daily naps to crossword puzzles!

Today’s proverb addresses this question. In the ancient Near East, “light” symbolized physical life. For example, without the light of a campfire at night, a traveler was susceptible to danger, even death.

The point is that a wise, godly person will tend to have a long life. He or she will “walk in the light” (Isaiah 2:5; John 12:35)—keeping God’s rules that provide for safety. Foolish, sinful people, on the other hand, tend to die early. They dwell in a kind of moral darkness that is fraught with traps and life-threatening trouble.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Godliness brings joy and light to life.

Today, Lord, help me remember that my life is in your hands. Help me avoid sinful attitudes and actions that put me at risk spiritually, emotionally, and physically.