How can Psalm 90:12 guide our decisions in time management and stewardship? Setting the verse in context “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) • Moses, the psalm’s author, contrasts God’s eternal nature (vv. 1–2) with man’s fleeting life (vv. 3–6). • Verse 12 is the turning point: awareness of brevity should drive us to seek God-given wisdom. What “numbering our days” means • Recognizing that life is finite—each day is a limited, God-allotted resource. • Measuring time against eternity, not merely against personal goals or cultural expectations. • Treating every day as a stewardship trust from the Lord (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:2). Guiding principles for time management 1. Priority of God’s kingdom – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” (Matthew 6:33) – Schedule around worship, Scripture, and service rather than squeezing them into leftovers. 2. Buying back wasted minutes – “Make the most of your time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:16) – Identify recurring distractions (excessive scrolling, idle talk) and set limits. 3. Planning with humility – “You do not know what tomorrow will bring.” (James 4:14) – Make detailed plans yet hold them loosely, submitting them to God’s will. 4. Rhythms of work and rest – God modeled rest (Genesis 2:2-3); Jesus practiced withdrawal to quiet places (Mark 1:35). – Sabbath-type rest recalibrates priorities and prevents the idolatry of productivity. Stewardship implications • Talent: Allocate time to develop gifts that strengthen Christ’s body (1 Peter 4:10). • Treasure: Budget hours for financial planning, generosity, and hands-on ministry. • Testimony: Use daily interactions—workplace, school run, grocery line—to reflect Christ. Practical steps to “number” your days • Daily review: Begin or end each day asking, “How did today advance eternal purposes?” • Weekly planning: Map out the week, blocking slots for worship, family, rest, and service first. • Accountability: Share goals with a mature believer; invite feedback on time use. • Margin: Leave buffer time for divine appointments—unexpected needs God brings across your path. The wisdom gained • Perspective: Earthly life becomes a prelude, not the main act (2 Corinthians 4:18). • Peace: Ordered days reduce anxiety; you’re walking in step with God’s design (Isaiah 26:3). • Fruitfulness: Intentional stewardship multiplies impact for Christ and brings eternal reward (John 15:8). Closing takeaway Psalm 90:12 calls us to treat every sunrise as a fresh stewardship assignment. Number the hours, invest them in what lasts, and watch God transform limited days into timeless treasures. |
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