Life is a gift from God.
Each day we wake up is another opportunity to grow, love, and serve.
But have you ever wondered how long we are meant to live?
Some people live to be 100 years old, while others pass away much younger.
In the Bible, one number often comes up when talking about the length of life—70 years.
Is this a set limit for how long we should expect to live?
Or is there something deeper behind this number?
Let’s explore what the Bible says about 70 years of life and what it means for us today.
The Bible Mentions 70 Years as a Lifespan
One of the most well-known verses about life expectancy is found in the book of Psalms.
Psalm 90:10 says, “Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.”
This verse was written by Moses, reflecting on the frailty of human life.
He acknowledges that most people live around 70 years, and if they are strong, they might reach 80.
But even then, life is filled with challenges.
Moses reminds us that no matter how long we live, our time on earth is short.
This verse does not say that everyone will live exactly 70 years.
It is a general observation about the typical lifespan of people.
Some live longer, and some live shorter.
But one thing is clear—life passes quickly.
The Meaning Behind 70 Years
In biblical times, numbers often had symbolic meaning.
The number 70 is significant in many ways throughout Scripture.
It represents completion, wisdom, and divine order.
For example, God appointed 70 elders to help Moses lead the Israelites in the wilderness.
There were also 70 years of exile for Israel in Babylon before God restored them.
When Jesus sent out His disciples, He sent 70 of them to preach and heal.
So when the Bible speaks of 70 years as a lifespan, it may also symbolize a full and complete life.
It is not just about counting years but about understanding that life is precious and should be lived with purpose.
Life Is Short but Meaningful
Psalm 39:4-5 says, “Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.”
These verses remind us that life is brief.
Even if we live to be 70, 80, or 100, it is still short compared to eternity.
This does not mean life is meaningless.
On the contrary, knowing that life is short should inspire us to make the most of it.
Every moment is valuable.
Every decision matters.
We should not waste time on things that do not honor God or bring true joy.
God Determines the Length of Our Days
While Psalm 90:10 mentions 70 years, the Bible makes it clear that only God knows the exact number of our days.
Job 14:5 says, “A person’s days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed.”
God is the one who gives life, and He is the one who decides when it will end.
This should bring us comfort.
No one leaves this world too early or too late according to God’s perfect plan.
He sees the full picture, and He knows what is best.
Instead of worrying about how long we will live, we should focus on living each day for Him.
A Call to Use Our Time Wisely
Since life is short, how should we spend our time?
Ephesians 5:15-16 gives us wisdom: “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
We are called to live wisely, making the most of every opportunity.
This means loving others, sharing the Gospel, and walking in obedience to God.
Too often, people waste years chasing things that do not satisfy.
Money, fame, and success are temporary.
But a life lived for God has eternal value.
The Promise of Long Life in the Bible
While Psalm 90:10 gives a general lifespan of 70 years, other verses in the Bible speak about the possibility of living longer.
Proverbs 3:1-2 says, “My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.”
This verse suggests that following God’s ways can lead to a longer, more fulfilling life.
Exodus 20:12 gives a similar promise: “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
Obedience to God and respect for others often lead to a blessed and extended life.
The Example of Those Who Lived Beyond 70 Years
There are many examples in the Bible of people who lived far beyond 70 years.
Moses lived to be 120 years old.
Abraham lived to be 175.
Noah lived to be 950.
Even in modern times, many people live past 100.
This shows that while 70 years is a common lifespan, it is not a fixed limit.
God can extend life according to His will and purpose.
The Hope of Eternal Life
While physical life is limited, the Bible speaks of a greater hope—eternal life.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
No matter how many years we live on earth, they are nothing compared to eternity with God.
For those who believe in Jesus, death is not the end.
It is the beginning of a life that never ends.
This is the greatest promise of all.
Preparing for the End of Life
Since life is short, we should prepare for what comes next.
Second Corinthians 5:10 says, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.”
How we live now matters.
Are we living for God or for ourselves?
Are we investing in things that will last?
Each day is a chance to grow closer to God and make an impact for His kingdom.
Encouragement for Those Nearing 70 Years
For those approaching 70 years, this is not a time to fear but a time to reflect on God’s faithfulness.
Psalm 92:12-14 says, “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”
God’s people can still bear fruit, no matter their age.
Life does not end at 70—it continues with purpose and meaning.
Many biblical figures did their greatest work later in life.
Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt at 80.
Caleb conquered the Promised Land at 85.
God is not done with anyone just because they reach a certain age.
He still has a plan.
Final Thoughts
The Bible speaks of 70 years as a common lifespan, but it is not a fixed rule.
Life is short, but it is meaningful.
God determines our days, and we are called to use them wisely.
Whether we live 70 years, 80, or beyond, what matters most is how we spend our time.
Are we living for God?
Are we making the most of each day?
More important than counting years is making our years count.
And for those who trust in Jesus, life does not end—it continues forever in His presence.