It is my desire to live a long, happy, healthy life so that I may fulfill the work of the Kingdom. Many people believe that long life (80+ years) isn't for everyone. I firmly believe that a long life is God's best for all Christians. I do recognize that there are cases of untimely death but I do not believe that it is God's doing. For example, we live in a fallen world where demonic forces are at work which can contribute to an early demise (1 Peter 5:8). Is it God's fault when someone willingly yields to evil and commits a murder? Absolutely not!
We also live in a world of natural laws which God placed here on earth during creation. For example, someone can't jump out of an airplane with no parachute, fall to their death, and the family blame God because he didn't suspend the law of gravity.
We have a lot to do with how long we live and the quality of life in which we live. It is not God's fault if someone eats a slab of bacon and dozen eggs for breakfast everyday, gaines excessive amounts of weight, never exercises, and dies from a heart attack. We do have a responsibility to keep up with the precious temple God has given us.
And then there are cases where it seems we have no answers to why believers die early...especially in the case of young children. Still the Scriptures are full of texts that point to God wanting his children to live, not only a long life, but a full life.
We've compiled a list of scriptures that support the idea that longevity can be obtained by every believer.
“… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; 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 30:19
“For by Me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you.” Proverbs 9:11
“You shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live and that it may be well with you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which you shall possess.” Deuteronomy 5:33
“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
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]. Proverbs 18:21
