February 8, 2025
The brevity of life
Read: Exodus 27, 28; Psalm 39; Matthew 20:1-16.
Scripture: Psalm 39:4 “Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. 5 You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.
Observation: David resolved to be quiet and silent in front of the wicked people, and he did so. However, he was not able to be silent when he came before God. While David meditated, the fire burned (v.3). Then David prayed to God and asked a “rhetorical question” that required no answer—“how fleeting my life is.” As he asks this very question of life, he knows the answer and says it. Life is short; no one, “even those who seem secure,” also cannot live long. There is an end to all. Everyone would accept it as true. But, how do we live?
Some people think and act as if they would live for thousands of years on this earth. Without knowing or caring about their end, they spend their energy and time acquiring wealth and possessions. How often do we hear and read about the fall or demise of mighty, wealthy, influential people! The more we realize the brevity of our life, the more we should plan to make a long-lasting impact through our life.
Application: My life on this earth is short. But Jesus makes my life sweet and useful for others. Whatever I face, “my hope” is in God. For HE is the eternal one. Jesus called me to live and to prepare for the eternal life he has stored for me. By living according to God’s will and plan, my short life can be beneficial to all, not just to me. Instead of focusing on temporary things, I will fix my eyes on eternity.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for helping me to understand the true nature and span of human life. Lord, you are the Alpha and Omega. You know everything. So I submit my life to your hands. May my life be an aroma that spreads your goodness and greatness. Amen.
✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️ Day – 39