My husband and I both come from families with longevity. Our grandmas lived to be over a hundred and lived independently in their homes ‘til their late 90s. What was their secret? What kept them going physically and mentally so well for so long? Healthy eating, exercise, determination, independence? I can guess at what their secret was and try to be like them. 

What about spiritual longevity? What do we need to do now to run this race well until the finish line? We all know those who have walked away from the faith, those who have taken back all that they once said they believed in. How does that happen? It’s not a sudden decision, it usually happens over time, a slow increase of doubts that aren’t spoken or heard or processed and a gradual slide away from faith occurs. Spiritual longevity - how do we maintain that? 

1 Corinthians 10:13 is a well-known verse, but the verse before, verse 12, shouts a strong warning that is equally important. “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 

Ladies, we are serving God all over the world. We are ministering to others (those in our families and outside of our families). We are proclaiming truth and pointing people to Jesus. As you work at being the part of the body of Christ that God has gifted you to be, don’t be caught off guard with your struggles and doubts. We all have them. The enemy seeks to destroy your ministry and steal your joy and peace. Don’t leave your doubts, fear, temptations, anxiety unspoken and “hidden” in the dark. Have the courage to bring those thoughts and questions to the Lord. He can handle it. Talk to Him and bring those doubts out into the light. Also seek a trusted friend or mentor who you can talk to as well. We are in this for the long haul. We want to be running this race well right into eternity. Don’t give the enemy any foothold in your thoughts.