Greed, often referred to as covetousness in biblical terms, is a strong and selfish desire for more of something than is needed, particularly wealth or possessions. The Bible consistently warns against greed, portraying it as a destructive force that can lead individuals away from God and into sin.

In the Old Testament, the Tenth Commandment explicitly addresses the issue of covetousness: "You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor" (Exodus 20:17). This commandment highlights the internal nature of greed, focusing on the desires of the heart rather than external actions alone.

The New Testament further emphasizes the dangers of greed. Jesus warns, "Watch out! Guard yourselves against every form of greed, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions" (Luke 12:15). This teaching underscores the futility of seeking fulfillment in material wealth, pointing instead to the importance of spiritual richness.

The Apostle Paul also addresses greed, equating it with idolatry: "Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry" (Colossians 3:5). Here, greed is seen as a form of worship directed away from God and towards material things, thus violating the first commandment to have no other gods.

Greed is often contrasted with the virtues of contentment and generosity. Paul writes to Timothy, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it" (1 Timothy 6:6-7). This passage encourages believers to find satisfaction in their relationship with God rather than in the accumulation of wealth.

Longevity

Longevity, or the length of one's life, is a theme that appears throughout the Bible, often associated with obedience to God's commandments and living a righteous life. The Scriptures present longevity as a blessing from God, though it is not guaranteed to all.

In the Old Testament, the promise of long life is frequently linked to adherence to God's laws. For example, in the book of Deuteronomy, Moses instructs the Israelites, "Honor your father and mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you" (Deuteronomy 5:16). This commandment, reiterated in the New Testament, underscores the connection between honoring one's parents and receiving the blessing of longevity.

The wisdom literature of the Bible also speaks to the relationship between righteousness and long life. Proverbs 3:1-2 states, "My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for they will add length to your days, years and peace to your life" . Here, the pursuit of wisdom and adherence to God's commandments are portrayed as pathways to a long and peaceful life.

In the New Testament, while the focus shifts more towards eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, the principle of living a life pleasing to God remains. Ephesians 6:2-3 reiterates the promise of long life associated with honoring one's parents, showing continuity between the Old and New Testaments.

The Bible also acknowledges that longevity is ultimately in God's hands. Psalm 139:16 declares, "Your eyes saw my unformed body; all my days were written in Your book and ordained for me before one of them came to be" . This verse highlights the sovereignty of God over the span of human life, reminding believers that while they are called to live righteously, the number of their days is determined by God.

Overall, the biblical perspective on longevity encourages a life of obedience, wisdom, and trust in God's providence, recognizing that true life is found in relationship with Him.