I must admit I sometimes get envious of all these young people making trips to some exotic places I’ve never been to (To me, even Florida is exotic!). I ask myself, “Why have you lived 41 years and haven’t even visited these places people half your age have been to?”

And I start thinking about when I would get a chance to visit those places. “Maybe when my kids are a little older. Maybe when our church is a little more established. Maybe when we have saved up a little more money…” But then I realize that it might never come. I could get sick and die early. Or God-forbid, Janet might. (And without Janet, all those places lose their appeal )

So, I want to live long. I want to live long so that I can visit all these places and enjoy what God has made for us to enjoy. But I realize that that is the wrong motive! Not that wanting to visit those places is wrong, but wanting to live long so that I can visit those places is wrong. What is the right motive?

“Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” Ps. 71:18

I want to be at a place in my life now that I can confidently say, “The reason why I want to live long is so that I can declare God’s power to the next generation!”

The Apostle Paul had this exact sentiment. He said, to paraphrase, it would be better for him to be with Christ in heaven, but for God’s people’s sake, he chooses to remain on earth. His sole reason for wanting to live on was to bring more glory to Christ.

See how god-centeredness works? (Last Sunday I preached on being self-centered – shopper mentality vs. god-centered – servant mentality)

Live long and preach!

PH