As a child growing up in the country, life felt simple and carefree. Our backyard was full of trees, and a creek ran through our property. I spent many days playing in the woods, damming up the creek, and creating deeper swimming holes for me, my friends, and my siblings. Those moments are some of my sweetest memories—life seemed uncomplicated, joyful, and filled with adventure.

Yet, as we grow older, life becomes more complicated. Responsibilities pile up, and we often find ourselves too busy or too afraid to take chances. A few years ago, I read a book about people who lived to be over 100. Their stories revealed three common factors in their longevity:

1. A belief and trust in God.
2. A carefree lifestyle rooted in that trust.
3. A close connection to family and loved ones.

Initially, I thought their longevity would be tied to strict health regimens, regular doctor visits, and impeccable diets. But their stories revealed something deeper—a life anchored in faith, simplicity, and meaningful relationships. These principles can guide us as we navigate a fast-paced, stressful world. Let’s explore what God’s Word says about these three elements and how we can apply them to our lives.

1. Belief and Trust in God

Faith in God is the foundation of a well-lived life. Trusting Him brings peace and purpose, even in the midst of challenges. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

The people in the book who lived over 100 years trusted God to guide their steps. Their faith gave them a sense of peace that allowed them to navigate life’s ups and downs without succumbing to stress or fear.

Jesus encourages us to have this same trust in Matthew 6:25-27:
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”

When we place our faith in God, we can release the burdens of anxiety and stress, trusting that He will provide for our needs and guide us through every season.

2. A Carefree Lifestyle Rooted in Faith

Living carefree doesn’t mean living irresponsibly. It means living with the confidence that God is in control, freeing us to enjoy the beauty of life without being consumed by worry.

Philippians 4:6-7 gives us clear instructions:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

The stress level of many Americans today is through the roof. Adults and children alike are overwhelmed by the demands of modern life, often turning to medication to cope. But God offers us something better: His peace. When we cast our cares on Him (1 Peter 5:7), we can experience a freedom that allows us to live joyfully, regardless of our circumstances.

Think about how Jesus lived. Though He faced immense pressures, He frequently withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16). He modeled a rhythm of rest, trust, and reliance on the Father.

3. A Close Connection to Family and Loved Ones

The third commonality among those who lived long lives was their strong connection to family. They prioritized relationships over material possessions, understanding that love and community bring true fulfillment.

Psalm 133:1 declares:
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”

God designed us for community. From the beginning, He said, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). Jesus also emphasized the importance of relationships, teaching us to love one another as He loved us (John 13:34).

In a world that values independence and self-reliance, we must remember the importance of family and community. Strong relationships not only enrich our lives but also provide the support we need during difficult times.

Biblical Examples of a Well-Lived Life

The Bible provides examples of people who embodied these three principles:

1. Enoch
   Enoch walked faithfully with God, and his life was so pleasing to the Lord that he was taken to heaven without experiencing death (Genesis 5:24). His faith and trust in God set him apart.
2. Ruth
   Ruth’s loyalty to her family and her faith in God led to a blessed life. She chose to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi, declaring, “Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). Her story shows the beauty of commitment to both God and family.
3. Paul
   Though Paul faced immense trials, he lived a carefree life rooted in faith. He wrote in Philippians 4:11-13:
   “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

How Can We Live Well in a Modern World?

Times have changed, but God’s principles remain the same. Here are practical steps to live well in today’s world:

1. Prioritize Time with God
   Start your day with prayer and Bible reading. Let God’s Word shape your thoughts and actions.
2. Simplify Your Life
   Identify stressors and eliminate unnecessary commitments. Focus on what truly matters: faith, family, and meaningful relationships.
3. Invest in Relationships
   Spend quality time with your loved ones. Prioritize family dinners, phone calls, and activities that build connection.
4. Live with Purpose
   Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Recognize the brevity of life and make each day count.

Living Like We’re Dying

If you had one day, one month, or one year to live, what would you do differently? Why not start doing those things today? James 4:14 reminds us, “Why, 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.”

Those who live to be 100 have learned that money, possessions, and titles pale in comparison to faith, family, and a life free from unnecessary stress. Let’s take a page from their book—and more importantly, from God’s Word—as we seek to live well in every season.

May we live each day with trust in God, joy in our hearts, and love for those around us, so that when our time comes, we can say with Paul:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).