Numbering Our Days

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. // Psalm 90:12

As I braked for the stop sign, I saw them out of the corner of my eye. The familiarity of the scene turned my head fully toward them. She was a young mother, pushing her baby—likely her first—in a stroller on a magnificent spring afternoon. I smiled and waved them safely across the street. 

I experienced the memory in my entire body. Just under a decade ago, I was that first time mother pushing my son in a stroller on sunny afternoons. In fact, it was those same streets we walked, day after day, as he became acquainted with the world and I became acquainted with motherhood. 

A heavy sigh escaped my chest as I closed my eyes. It really does go quickly, I thought.

The chorus of my now-four-children’s chatter brought me back to the present, and I prayed today’s Psalm. Teach me to number my days, Lord. They are fleeting. Make my heart wise so I may walk in Your ways and live my days well.

True wisdom is gained through numbering our days. When we view our lives through the lens of the end of them, perspective becomes clearer. Suddenly, we know exactly what matters most. We know where we want to be and what decisions will help us get there (even if they seem painful in the present moment). 

These swift but important times of reflection are what help us to remember our eternal destination and to allow the Lord to teach us how to number, order, and prioritize our days to that end. 

In what areas of your life are you feeling overwhelmed? What feels confusing or scary? In prayer, consider your days and your ultimate goal of Heaven. Ask the Holy Spirit for His gift of wisdom, for it goes more quickly than we realize.