Brief Answer

Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” This verse reminds us that life is short, and our time on earth is limited. When we ask God to teach us to number our days, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and seek His wisdom to live purposefully. It helps us focus on what truly matters-our relationship with God, living righteously, and preparing for eternity. Recognizing the brevity of life leads us to value each day as an opportunity to glorify God and fulfill His purpose.

Understanding Psalm 90:12 from a Biblical Perspective

Psalm 90 is a prayer of Moses, one of the few psalms attributed to him. In it, Moses contrasts God’s eternal nature with human frailty. Life is brief, like a vapor, and our days are numbered. The psalm highlights that wisdom comes from understanding our mortality and living in light of eternity.

When Moses prays, “Teach us to number our days,” he is asking God to help us:

• Recognize the brevity of life (James 4:14 – “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes”).

• Seek wisdom and discernment in how we use our time (Ephesians 5:15-16 – “Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity”).

• Live with purpose and godly priorities (Colossians 3:2 – “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things”).

• Trust in God’s eternal plan, knowing our lives are in His hands (Psalm 31:15 – “My times are in your hands”).

Historical Context

Moses wrote Psalm 90 during Israel’s wilderness wanderings. The Israelites had experienced God’s power in the Exodus, yet many perished in the desert because of their disobedience. Moses, having witnessed the fleeting nature of life, pleads with God to teach His people the importance of wisdom in how they live.

In ancient times, life expectancy was uncertain. People faced war, disease, and famine, making it clear that human existence was fragile. Unlike today, they had no advanced medical care or technology to prolong life. This made the lesson of numbering one’s days even more urgent.

For Israel, the failure to heed God’s wisdom meant dying in the wilderness instead of entering the Promised Land. Moses, who had seen generations pass away due to sin, understood how essential it was to live in obedience to God’s will.

Practical Implications

When we ask God to teach us to number our days, we:

• Make better choices – Prioritizing what truly matters rather than wasting time on meaningless pursuits (Proverbs 3:5-6).

• Seek God’s will daily – Recognizing that every day is an opportunity to grow in faith and serve Him (Matthew 6:33).

• Value relationships – Loving and investing in others rather than taking time for granted (Ephesians 4:32).

• Prepare for eternity – Understanding that our ultimate goal is to be with Christ forever (John 14:1-3).

Theological Depth and Insight

The concept of numbering our days ties into God’s sovereignty over time. He alone determines the length of our lives (Job 14:5). While we do not control how many days we have, we are responsible for how we use them.

The Bible repeatedly emphasizes:

• Life is fleeting (Psalm 39:4-5 – “Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days”).

• God’s wisdom directs our steps (Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps”).

• We are accountable for how we live (Romans 14:12 – “Each of us will give an account of ourselves to God”).

Jesus also taught about using time wisely in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), where those who invested what they were given were rewarded, while the one who wasted it faced judgment.

Broader Biblical Themes

• Eternal Perspective – Focusing on things that last rather than temporary pleasures (2 Corinthians 4:18).

• Seeking Wisdom – The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).

• Stewardship of Time – We are accountable for how we use the time God gives us (Luke 12:48).

• Living for Christ – Paul reminds us that life’s purpose is glorifying Christ (Philippians 1:21 – “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain”).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit helps us live wisely by:

• Guiding us into truth (John 16:13) so we make godly decisions.

• Convicting us when we waste time on things that don’t honor God (John 16:8).

• Empowering us to live with purpose, using our gifts for His glory (Acts 1:8).

• Reminding us that we are pilgrims in this world, called to live for eternity (1 Peter 2:11).

Relevance for Today’s Christian

In a world full of distractions, numbering our days reminds us to:

• Live intentionally – Using time wisely rather than being consumed by busyness or entertainment.

• Avoid procrastination – Not delaying repentance, obedience, or sharing the Gospel (James 4:17).

• Invest in eternal things – Focusing on spiritual growth, evangelism, and godly relationships.

• Seek God daily – Making time for prayer and Scripture to align our hearts with His will.

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

Jesus modeled a life of purpose, knowing His time on earth was short. He said, “As long as it is day, we must do the works of Him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work” (John 9:4).

God’s love is displayed in the fact that He gives us time to repent and come to Him (2 Peter 3:9). Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross makes it possible for us to spend eternity with Him-something far more valuable than anything this life offers.

Bible Characters Who Understood This Truth

• Moses – Asked God to teach His people to number their days so they would gain wisdom.

• David – Often reflected on life’s brevity and sought God’s guidance (Psalm 39:4).

• Solomon – Learned that apart from God, life is meaningless (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).

• Paul – Lived with urgency, spreading the Gospel and making the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:16).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• How does understanding the brevity of life change the way you live each day?

• What are some things in your life that may be distractions from eternal priorities?

• How can you use your time more wisely to glorify God?

• In what ways can you seek God’s wisdom more intentionally in daily decisions?

• How does knowing that Jesus lived purposefully inspire you to do the same?

Recognizing that our days are numbered helps us focus on what truly matters-living in obedience to God, loving others, and preparing for eternity. When we ask God to teach us to number our days, we are inviting Him to shape our hearts with wisdom, so we live each moment for His glory.