How should Job 9:26 influence our daily priorities and decisions?

The Verse at a Glance

“ ‘They glide by like reed skiffs, like an eagle swooping upon its food.’ ” (Job 9:26)

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Life Is Swift—Embrace an Eternal Perspective

- Boats of papyrus skim and vanish; an eagle dives and is gone. Job paints everyday scenes that last only moments.

- Scripture agrees: “For you are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” (James 4:14)

- Because time races, what endures—the Lord and His purposes—must eclipse everything else (2 Corinthians 4:18).

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Priorities Shaped by Fleeting Days

- Pursue the Kingdom first. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” (Matthew 6:33)

- Number your days. “Teach us to number our days, that we may present a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12)

- Walk carefully. “Be very careful how you live… redeeming the time.” (Ephesians 5:15-17)

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Daily Decision Grid

Ask of every choice:

• Will this matter in eternity? (1 Corinthians 3:13-14)

• Does it draw me or others nearer to Christ? (Colossians 3:1-2)

• Is it obedient to revealed Scripture? (John 14:15)

If the answer is yes, move forward eagerly; if no, let it go—life’s too short for distractions.

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Practical Takeaways for Today

- Schedule around Scripture and prayer first, not last.

- Keep short accounts in relationships; forgive quickly (Ephesians 4:32).

- Invest consistently in gospel work—time, talents, resources (Philippians 4:17).

- Leave room for rest and worship; hurry is the enemy of holiness (Exodus 20:8-10).

- Avoid procrastination; “you do not know what tomorrow will bring.” (Proverbs 27:1)

When our days glide by like Job’s reed skiffs, only what is done for Christ will remain.