Keeping Life and Death in Perspective: A Biblical Mandate

Keeping Life and Death in Perspective: A Biblical Mandate

Introduction

Recently, I lost a dear friend, a relative, and an admired and greatly accomplished scientist in the person of Dr. Michael Obasaju. I was shocked and numb for days followed with a blistering headache. At last, I chose to reflect both life and death again. This time the basic reality of life and death dawn on me as tangible realities that must both be kept in perspective. I chose the logic of the biblical perspective. The Bible teaches us to live with a unique perspective, one that balances the realities of life and death. This perspective is essential for living a life that honors God and makes the most of the time we have on earth. Like Apostle Paul says in Philippians 1: 21: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about keeping life and death in perspective.

The Brevity of Life

The Bible reminds us that life is short and fragile. Psalm 39:4-5 says, “LORD, make me aware of my end, and the brevity of life, that I may know how frail I am. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you” (NIV). This psalmist’s cry echoes the sentiment of James 4:14, which says, “You do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (NIV).

Understanding Death

The Bible also teaches us that death is a universal destiny. Hebrews 9:27 says, “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment” (NIV). This reality should motivate us to live with purpose and intentionality, as we will one day give an account for our lives.

Focusing on Eternal Things

Colossians 3:1-2 encourages us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. Paul writes, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (NIV). Similarly, 2 Corinthians 4:18 says, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (NIV).

Living with Purpose

Matthew 25:31-46 and Luke 12:48 remind us that our lives have consequences and that we will be held accountable for how we live. Jesus teaches us to live with purpose and intentionality, using our talents and resources wisely.

Conclusion

Keeping life and death in perspective is a biblical mandate. By recognizing the brevity of life, understanding death, focusing on eternal things, and living with purpose, we can honor God and make the most of our time on earth. As Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (NIV). May we live with wisdom and intentionality, keeping life and death in perspective.

References:

– Psalm 39:4-5 (NIV)
– James 4:14 (NIV)
– Hebrews 9:27 (NIV)
– Colossians 3:1-2 (NIV)
– 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
– Matthew 25:31-46 (NIV)
– Luke 12:48 (NIV)
– Psalm 90:12 (NIV)