How do we know that death is always near?

The Bible speaks clearly about the uncertainty and nearness of death. Richard Sibbes points out that death does not wait until we are ready; it often comes unexpectedly, similar to a thief in the night. Jeremiah Burroughs reminds us that we do not know whether we will live another day, an hour, or even a moment. These insights stress the importance of living faithfully and being prepared for the inevitable, as our time on earth is fleeting and akin to a candle that can be blown out at any moment. The Puritans consistently urged believers to live with an awareness of death, which they viewed as essential for maintaining a godly life.