Proverbs 10:27, "The fear of the Lord lengthens one's life, but the years of the wicked are cut short."

Think

"Live long and prosper," the iconic Vulcan salute from the TV series, Star Trek, was originally a Hebrew gesture forming the letter "shin," which represents the name "Shaddai" meaning "Almighty God." Jewish people saw this as a reminder that living a long, full life was the result of fearing Almighty God. Today's verse tells us that a life controlled by sinful, bad habits can bring about an abbreviated life span. But someone who lives with the fear of God leads a full life. We should note that this proverb, like all proverbs, is a general principle, not a promise. Some who fear God die young, and some who have no fear of God live long. But, those who fear God generally live longer than those who do not. What is the best explanation of this life principle? Those who fear God have godly wisdom and, in general, avoid sinful, reckless actions that can shorten life. This reverence and awe-filled approach to the Lord promotes a higher level of self-control and personal responsibility, resulting in a lifestyle of working hard and developing healthy habits. Simply put, those who fear God apply His wisdom and salute to all, "Live long and prosper!"

Act

Make a list of those life habits that you know are bad for your physical and spiritual well-being. Now write a good habit next to each bad one. Post your list in a place you frequent regularly and begin today to replace the bad with the good.

Pray

Dear God, I want to live a long life that reflects Your wisdom. Thank You for the grace to make the changes necessary to prolong my life. I trust You and place my life under Your authority. In Jesus' name, Amen.