March 16

7,060 Days

Teach us to number our days aright that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Psalm 90:12 (NIV)

My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and years of life, and peace they will add to you.

Proverbs 3:1-2 (NAS)

I am 50 years old. This morning, Psalm 90:12 came to mind and I had the thought, “What if I live to be seventy? How many days do I have left?” After plugging the numbers into my calculator, I found I would have 7,060 days until my 70th birthday. With a little help from a spreadsheet, I now have two sheets of paper covered with 7,060 numbered days—a countdown and a reminder life is SHORT.

Perhaps I will have all of these two pages of days, or if the Lord so chooses, perhaps I’ll have three pages, or maybe less! The point I’m coming away with is this: God has given me my most valuable resource—time. If I am smart, I will use these days for Him, and if I’m really smart, I’ll ask, “What shall we do today, Lord?”

I wonder. How many days are you hoping to live … and … how will you spend your time? What will you do with today?

Lord, help us see the need to redeem the time, to live carefully and productively for You. Give us strength to actively pursue the good things You would have us do. Bless our short time here on earth. May we take joy in the days You provide. Amen.