QUESTION: My 93-year-old mother has been strong and healthy her entire life. I am afraid that she has a false confidence about going to heaven. She says that God must be happy with her, because he has given her a long and happy life. Should I be concerned about her salvation?

ANSWER: We should always be reminded that salvation is a free gift from God which we are unable to earn ourselves (Ephesians 2:8,9). Our sinful nature is constantly telling us that we don’t need God, and that we can earn salvation on our own. So, in that regard, you should be concerned about your mother’s salvation, just as you should be concerned about your own.

Since she is still strong and healthy, you should encourage your mother to use her blessings to glorify God. Paul wrote, “Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others” (1 Corinthians 10:24). Your mom has some unique opportunities to reflect God’s love by serving others, and you are in the position to encourage her on a regular basis.

Rather than evaluating the reason why God has given her such a long life, I urge her to use each day to glorify him with the blessings that she has been given. Whether her remaining life is short or long, her purpose on earth is the same – to grow in faith, to live her faith, and to share her faith.