Psalm 90:9-12 KJV — For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: We spend our years as a tale that is told. [10] The days of our years are threescore years and ten; And if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, Yet is their strength labour and sorrow; For it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
[11] Who knoweth the power of thine anger? Even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath. [12] So teach us to number our days, That we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
Whether you agree or not, life expectancy is real. The Bible acknowledges it clearly: most people will not live beyond 70 years. A few, by strength and wise choices, may reach 80 or more — but even those years often come with labor, sorrow, and struggle.
This Psalm, written by Moses, reminds us how short and fragile life really is. He compares our years to a story being told — quickly recited, then over. That’s why verse 12 is so powerful: “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” It’s not about fearing death. It’s about living wisely. When we realize our days are limited, we learn to prioritize what truly matters:
- Our relationship with God
- Living in obedience
- Loving others well
- Making eternal choices in a temporary world
Time is one resource we can’t get back. Let each day count. Pause today and ask yourself:
- Am I living wisely?
- How can I better align my time with God’s purpose?
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to number my days. Help me not to waste time on what doesn’t matter. Give me a heart full of Your wisdom, so I can live each day with meaning, purpose, and eternal perspective. Amen
