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.
a) Wisdom helps us prioritize. Knowing that our time is limited helps us to focus on what truly matters and not be distracted by trivial things (Proverbs 4:7).
b) Wisdom helps us live according to God’s will. We must seek God’s wisdom in how to spend our time so that our lives reflect His purpose (James 1:5).
c) Wisdom helps us avoid regret. When we live with wisdom, we avoid wasting time on things that do not matter and avoid the heartache of unfulfilled potential (Psalm 90:10).
d) Wisdom helps us embrace the present. By understanding the brevity of life, we learn to live fully in the present moment, making the most of each day (Psalm 118:24).
Biblical Example: King Solomon, known for his wisdom, asked God for wisdom to lead God’s people and was blessed with a prosperous and purposeful reign (1 Kings 3:5-14).
God’s wisdom is crucial in helping us navigate life’s demands and use our time in a way that honors Him.
5. LIVING WITH A SENSE OF URGENCY
Knowing that life is short and that time is a precious gift from God should give us a sense of urgency to live for His glory and make every moment count.
a) Our days are numbered. We don’t know how much time we have, so we must live each day with urgency and purpose, knowing that today matters (James 4:13-15).
b) There is work to be done. We are called to serve God and others, and there is an urgency to fulfill our calling and use our time wisely (John 9:4).
c) Time is an opportunity to make a difference. Every day is an opportunity to share the gospel, encourage others, and live out our faith (Ephesians 5:16).
d) We must not delay obedience. The longer we delay acting on what God calls us to do, the more we waste time that could be used for His purposes (Luke 9:62).
Biblical Example: The parable of the ten virgins teaches the importance of being ready at all times for the return of the Lord (Matthew 25:1-13).
Let us live with a sense of urgency, making the most of each day, knowing that time is a gift from God.
CONCLUSION:
Life is short, and the days we are given are a precious gift from God. We are called to live each day with wisdom, purpose, and an eternal perspective. As we number our days, let us remember that time is fleeting and that how we use it matters not only for today but for eternity. Let us make the most of every opportunity to live for God’s glory and impact those around us. May we apply our hearts to wisdom and live in a way that honours God and makes each moment count.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to recognize the precious gift of time and live each day with purpose.
2. Father, give me wisdom to prioritize my time and live according to Your will.
3. Teach me to make the most of every opportunity to serve You and others.
4. Lord, help me to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on what truly matters.
5. Father, help me to use my time wisely, avoiding distractions and living with urgency.
