Proverbs 9.11

The book of Proverbs gives us a lot of instruction on a lot of different subjects. One subject that can keep us in God’s wisdom is Godly Follower-ship. Who we follow; where we follow; how we follow are all spoken about in Proverbs. Here is one of them about the benefits of wisdom:

Proverbs 9:11 (ESV)

For by me your days will be multiplied,

and years will be added to your life.

This is a bold statement by Solomon. But, inspired by the Holy Spirit.  Solomon knows the benefits of following wisdom. There is no guarantee that when we have wisdom we will live longer. Yet, that is how some take the verse. Some even add, that since Christ is wisdom, Christians will live longer. But, that is not what Solomon is teaching or even implying. What Solomon is teaching is that we can be sure to have "years added" to our lives as we follow the admonition(s) of Wisdom. Wisdom tells us how to eat and what to drink (chapter 20 and 23). If we eat right we can certainly expect to live longer. Wisdom tells us to avoid violent and scary people (chapter 1). If we avoid people like that we can expect to live longer. Wisdom tells us to follow the rules of life and the laws of life (almost every chapter). When we follow the laws of life and the rules of life we can expect to live longer. Wisdom, when followed, makes wise choices. Wise choices makes it possible to live longer. Wise people do die in their youth. However, as a practice, the more we practice wisdom the more we put ourselves in the position to live longer and gain more prosperity. Don't expect to live long on this earth just because you are gaining wisdom from God. However, use the Wisdom God gives you and you should expect those choices to translate into safer and healthier living. Safer and healthier living can produce longer lives.

Remember, in Solomon’s days they did not have national health care.   They had no health care.  They had less diseases, but had less protection.  Making wise choices about life was imperative.   We have choices to make in our life about what we do and how much we are involved in each day.  If we don’t make wise choices we will diminish our life, not extend it.  Those who make choices based upon the wisdom of God live longer.