As believers, we’re called not just to live well —but to finish well. The Apostle Paul said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). That’s the kind of legacy we want to leave for our spouses, our children, our grandchildren, and the world.
But legacies like that don’t just appear in the final years of life. They’re built in the hidden moments—in the habits we choose now, especially in the first half of life. In From Strength to Strength, Arthur Brooks highlights seven behaviors that shape happiness and purpose in old age. For the Christian, these habits are more than just good advice—they are acts of worship, stewardship, and preparation for a life that reflects Christ.
Here’s how starting these seven habits early—and continuing them faithfully—can lead to a legacy that echoes in eternity.
1. Cultivate Deep Relationships: Love as Christ Loves
“Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14)
At the end of your life, it won’t be your résumé that matters—it’ll be your relationships. The love you invest in your spouse, your kids, your neighbors, and your church family is the greatest legacy of all. Don’t wait. Love intentionally now. Forgive freely. Be present. Relationships are the soil where legacy grows.
2. Pursue Lifelong Learning: Renew Your Mind
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)
Christians never outgrow discipleship. Reading, studying, learning—it’s all part of growing in wisdom and usefulness to God. A curious, humble learner is a light in a world growing increasingly apathetic and distracted. Show your grandchildren what it means to never stop growing in grace.
3. Develop Adaptive Coping Strategies: Anchor Yourself in Christ
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)
When storms come (and they will), your response becomes a living testimony. Do your children see panic or prayer? Grumbling or gratitude? Learning healthy, Christ-centered ways to handle stress shapes a legacy of peace, resilience, and trust in God’s sovereignty.
4. Exercise Regularly: Strength for Service
“…Train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value…” (1 Timothy 4:7–8)
Exercise isn’t vanity—it’s vitality. A strong body serves others better, resists illness, and honors God through action. Physical strength allows you to love actively—whether it’s serving your spouse, leading your family, or volunteering well into your golden years.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Embrace Discipline
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness…” (Hebrews 12:11)
Caring for your body with wisdom and restraint is a daily discipline that reaps long-term fruit. It enables you to walk with your grandchildren, serve in your local church, and live with the energy needed to fulfill God’s call on your life.
6. Moderate Alcohol Use: Live Sober-Minded
“Be alert and of sober mind…” (1 Peter 5:8)
Moderation or abstinence from alcohol protects not only your health, but also your witness. It models self-control, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23), and ensures you’re present, sharp, and trustworthy. Your restraint today teaches the next generation how to live free of bondage tomorrow.
7. Avoid Smoking/Vaping: Steward the Temple
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit…?” (1 Corinthians 6:19)
Choosing to avoid or quit smoking is not just about health—it’s about honoring the body God gave you. Your physical presence matters to your spouse, your children, and the kingdom work God has for you. When you take care of your body, you honor the Giver of life and extend the years you can love and serve others.
Building a Legacy That Lasts Forever
The legacy you leave is already forming in the habits you choose today. The good news? God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23). Whether you’re 25 or 55, the time to begin—or begin again—is now.
As Christians, we aren’t called to coast into retirement. We’re called to run the race set before us (Hebrews 12:1). These habits won’t just help you finish strong—they’ll help you leave a legacy of faithfulness, love, and eternal fruit.
Your spouse will feel it.
Your children will remember it.
Your grandchildren will build upon it.
And heaven will rejoice in it.
Start early. Stay faithful. Leave a legacy that outlives you and glorifies God.