“The fear of the LORD prolongs life, But the years of the wicked will be shortened.” – Proverbs 10:27

In a world increasingly shaped by subjective values, the sacredness of human life is often overshadowed by cultural norms and personal preferences. From the womb to the grave, life is a gift from God, imbued with dignity and purpose. Proverbs 10:27 reminds us that the fear of the LORD prolongs life, while the wickedness of humanity shortens it. This verse serves as a stark contrast between those who honor God’s gift of life and those who devalue it through subjective reasoning.

One of the most tragic manifestations of this subjectivity is the devaluation of unborn life. In cultures that reject God’s authority, the worth of an unborn child is often determined by circumstances or convenience. Abortion reflects this flawed perspective, as it denies the biblical truth that life begins in the womb. Scripture teaches that God knits each child together (Psalm 139:13-16), and every unborn life carries the imago Dei, the image of God. To destroy that life is to reject the Creator’s work and diminish the sacredness of human existence.

This devaluation extends to individuals with disabilities. In societies that prioritize utility over inherent worth, those with physical or mental challenges are often marginalized. A godless worldview sees them as burdens rather than blessings. Yet, the Bible commands us to care for the weak and vulnerable (Leviticus 19:14; Luke 14:13-14). Every person, regardless of ability, is a reflection of God’s image, deserving of respect and honor. Their lives demonstrate God’s glory in unique and profound ways.

The end of life presents another area where the wickedness of subjectivity emerges. Euthanasia, or assisted suicide, has gained acceptance in many cultures, treating life as disposable when it becomes inconvenient or painful. This perspective denies the sanctity of aging and suffering, ignoring the ways God uses trials to sanctify and refine His people (Romans 5:3-5). By taking life prematurely, we place human judgment above God’s sovereignty, failing to trust in His perfect timing and purposes.

At the heart of these issues is the wicked’s rejection of God’s authority. When society denies that life is a gift from God, it loses its objective value. Without the fear of the LORD, life becomes defined by utility, convenience, or fleeting emotions. This subjective view leads to exploitation, violence, and the destruction of life, both literally and spiritually. The wicked do not only fail to preserve others’ lives; they are often reckless with their own, engaging in self-destructive behaviors that shorten their years.

In contrast, the fear of the LORD restores life’s sacred value. When we honor God as the Author and Sustainer of life, we acknowledge that every human being has inherent worth and dignity. God’s commands—such as protecting the unborn, caring for the vulnerable, and respecting the elderly—promote life and well-being. By living in reverence to God, we create a society that flourishes, reflecting His order and justice.

The biblical view of life is not rooted in subjective opinion but in God’s eternal truth. Life is sacred because it is created by God, sustained by His power, and purposed for His glory. From the unborn child to the elderly, every stage of life carries unique value and significance. Even in suffering or disability, God’s purposes are being fulfilled, demonstrating His sovereignty and grace.

Ultimately, Proverbs 10:27 serves as a call to value life as God does. The fear of the LORD leads to life—both in its quality and longevity—while rejecting Him leads to destruction. As believers, we are called to affirm the sanctity of life, protecting it at all stages and reflecting God’s love and justice in how we treat others. By upholding these truths, we honor the Creator and shine His light in a culture darkened by subjectivity.

God demonstrated His ultimate value for humanity through the incarnation of Christ. In an act of unparalleled humility and love, He stepped into time and space as a human infant, fulfilling centuries of prophecy. The birth of Jesus, celebrated by the heavenly host, also brought the opposition of Herod the Great, who ordered the slaughter of all boys under the age of two in Bethlehem. Yet God’s sovereignty preserved the life of His Son, guiding His earthly father, Joseph, to flee to Egypt. This event underscores both the wicked’s rejection of life and God’s unwavering commitment to its preservation.

The incarnation of Christ not only affirms the value of human life but reveals its ultimate purpose. Jesus, fully God and fully man, humbled Himself to live among us, not for His benefit but to fulfill the plan of redemption. By taking on human flesh, He demonstrated the worth of every life and provided the way for reconciliation with God. His sacrificial death paid the penalty for sin, offering eternal life to all who place their hope and trust in Him. Through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, we see the ultimate affirmation of life’s sanctity and God’s desire to redeem and restore His creation.