Blessing of Long Life

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:1-3)

I have contemplated this for years, wondering at the blessing of long life. Many old people seem to be preoccupied with ailments, limitations and fears, which they don’t appear to enjoy. Even those not so old from my perspective, long to be young again.  

“David son of Jesse was king over all Israel. He ruled over Israel forty years—seven in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem. He died at a good old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth and honor. His son Solomon succeeded him as king.” (1 Chronicles 29:26-28) David was a king, but how is long life compared to wealth and honor? “The fear of the Lord adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.” (Proverbs 10:27) There is sadness for those who are cut off in the midst of life by disease, accident or tragedy; we understand bitterness in the  untimely death of the young. An unfulfilled life wasted in wicked pursuits is equally tragic.  “Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.” (Psalms 34:12-13) Not everyone enjoys life to the same extent. I have seen aged people who seemed to long for death, particularly near the end with infirmities. However, I once asked my ninety year old uncle about living longer and he replied, “…Every day the Lord gives me.” 

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (Psalms 91:14-16) Is there a satisfaction that comes only with long life? I once thought long life was like fruit on a tree or vine that ripens fully and achieves sweetness and flavor only time can produce. 

I was confused by seeing long life as something God decided as a reward or for His purposes. God is good and loving in all His ways. He made a wonder filed earth upon which we can live, thrive, enjoy, grow and prosper. He delights to give us good things each day. The essence of life itself, even our temporal physical existence is marvelous, miraculous, and blessed. It could be that as we live normal everyday lives, especially Believers, we voice our prayers, commune in thought with God, serve our family members and friends, work and imperceptibly reflect the life-force of God’s inner Spirit deposit, expressing love. That is very good. Finally, I see that the gift of even one day of life is of incomparably great worth!