Lord, Teach Us To Number Our Days Series

LORD, TEACH US TO NUMBER OUR DAYS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 90:12 (KJV)

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

INTRODUCTION:

Life is fleeting and fragile, and every day that passes is one we will never get back. In Psalm 90:12, the psalmist, acknowledging the brevity of human life, prays for God’s guidance in making the most of the time we have. This prayer is not just for us to count the days, but to understand the significance of each day and live with wisdom, making each moment count. The reality of mortality can often stir fear or sorrow, but it can also serve as a powerful reminder to live purposefully and with eternity in mind.

We must recognise that time is a gift from God, and how we use it determines the quality and legacy of our lives. Let us pray for the wisdom to understand the value of time and the urgency to live in a way that honours God, impacts others, and prepares us for eternity.

1. LIFE IS SHORT AND FRAGILE

The psalmist acknowledges the brevity of life, a truth that we often forget as we go through our daily routines. Life is not promised to anyone, and our days are numbered by God.

a) Our lives are but a vapour. The Bible reminds us that our lives are short, like a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes away (James 4:14).

b) Time is beyond our control. We cannot add to or take away from the number of our days, but we can choose how we live them (Matthew 6:27).

c) Life’s uncertainty urges us to live wisely. Knowing that life is fragile should push us to make the most of the time we have (Ephesians 5:15-16).

d) The shortness of life highlights the need for purpose. Each day counts, and we must live with intention, knowing that every moment matters (Psalm 39:4).

Biblical Example: King Hezekiah, when faced with the reality of death, prayed earnestly to God for more time and was granted 15 more years (Isaiah 38:1-5).

Our life is fleeting, and we must acknowledge this truth to live with wisdom and purpose.

2. WE MUST LIVE WITH ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE

When we number our days, we gain an eternal perspective that transforms how we view life. Understanding that our time on earth is limited helps us prioritize what matters most.

a) We are citizens of heaven. As believers, our true home is not on earth but in heaven, and this eternal reality should guide how we spend our time (Philippians 3:20).

b) Temporal things are passing away. The things of this world—our possessions, achievements, and pleasures—will not last, so we must focus on what is eternal (1 John 2:17).

c) Our relationship with God is eternal. Spending time with God, seeking His will, and living according to His purpose is what will endure forever (Matthew 6:19-20).

d) We are called to invest in eternal rewards. The way we live our lives has eternal implications, and our actions should reflect our hope in heaven (Colossians 3:1-2).

Biblical Example: Moses, though he lived in the palace of Pharaoh, chose to suffer with God’s people because he had his eyes fixed on the eternal reward (Hebrews 11:24-26).

Living with an eternal perspective helps us to make wise decisions that will bear fruit for eternity.

3. TIME IS A GIFT FROM GOD

Each day that we are given is a gift from God, and it is important to recognize it as such. We are stewards of our time, and how we use it matters.

a) Time is a stewardship. God has entrusted us with time, and He expects us to use it wisely, for His glory and for the good of others (1 Peter 4:10).

b) Time should be used for godly purposes. Our time should be invested in things that build God’s kingdom, such as worship, service, and sharing the gospel (Matthew 6:33).

c) Time should be used for personal growth. We must also invest time in our own spiritual growth, nurturing our relationship with God through prayer, the Word, and fellowship (2 Peter 3:18).

d) Wasting time is a tragedy. Time spent in vain pursuits or selfish living robs us of opportunities to live for what truly matters (Ephesians 5:16).

Biblical Example: Jesus, knowing His time on earth was limited, used every moment to teach, heal, and prepare His disciples for the work ahead (John 9:4).

Time is precious, and we are called to steward it wisely, using it for purposes that will honor God and impact others.

4. THE NEED FOR WISDOM IN HOW WE SPEND OUR DAYS

As we number our days, we must apply our hearts to wisdom, asking God for guidance in how we use our time.