Fall Devotional, 2003
By Lisa Kanakin

September 11th. A day that lives in infamy, when we lost nearly 3,000 fellow Americans in tragic, senseless terrorism. We will never forget those who died.

September 12th. Now also a day of remembrance, when we lost Johnny Cash and John Ritter. We mourn with those who mourn.

September 13th. Who will be gone this day, or the day after? Will it be you? Will it be me?

Nah, not me. It's always the other guy. Whew. I'm sure glad it's not me. I would hate to leave good ol' planet Earth right now. I've got too much left to do. I haven't bought my dream house. I haven't gone to Hawaii yet. Heck, I'm just reaching middle age. It couldn't be me.

I would guess that deep down, that's probably how most of us feel. We don't expect that our number will come up for a long, long time.

In the meantime life passes by, and we complain about the little things (I know I do), and we sometimes miss some of the beautiful things (I know I have), and we plug along as if our number will never come up. It's just so easy to believe it won't happen to me. Perhaps until a day like September 11th or 12th when we are reminded of how short life is.

The Psalmist implores God to "teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Numbering our days means to be aware that every day is precious and to count on the fact that we won't live forever. God is very big on numbering. He has numbered the hairs on our head (Matthew 10:30), revealing his intimate knowledge of us. He has numbered the stars in the sky (Psalm 147:4), illustrating his powerful hand in creation. He has numbered our steps (Job 14:16) to show us how intricately his plan has been woven with us in mind. In fact, in Exodus 23:26, God says he himself will "fulfill the number of [our] days." He knows exactly what he has prepared for us in advance, and he will bring it to pass. Our job is to walk faithfully with him. To cooperate with his Spirit in bringing about his will. To delight in his foresight and goodness and trust in his decisions. And to live, by his power, to our fullest potential.

To accomplish this, I must "number my days" appropriately with a perspective of brevity. I must use my time wisely and resist the tendency to be complacent. There needs to be a sense of urgency and purpose, because I may not have tomorrow. And certainly there will be excitement Ð because it is nothing less than thrilling to be a part of God's plan.

So what are the personal applications of numbering our days? It's often been said to "live each day as if it is your last." Sounds like good advice, except if I truly thought today was my last, I might eat too much, spend too much, and not do anything routine! Not exactly a successful long term life strategy. Instead, "numbering our days" should lead to wise, thoughtful time management and strategic, purposeful living. Consider reviewing your live over the past six months and seeing if you're on track to really accomplish your and God's goals. Evaluate your commitment to God in terms of time and resources. Examine your relationships. Are they everything they can be? Numbering our days may result in making some significant life changes.

Ironically, though, numbering our days may mean doing less. Remember, God has already prepared the way for you to walk in it. If you are continually stressed out and feel empty, you may actually be too busy. You may need to slow down and let God recharge your batteries as you learn to trust more in his abilities and rely less on your own strength.

Whatever the implications, let God be the reason as he teaches you to number your days. Not only will we live a more satisfied life, but we've also been promised to gain "a heart of wisdom." Not a bad deal.

Father,
Teach us to number our days and walk as your Son Jesus did. Although he was the Messiah and Savior of the world, he was never too busy to touch people's lives. He always took time to get alone with you and share his heart through prayer. He didn't panic while being a carpenter, concerned that you had forgotten him and his mission. He remained faithful to you, his followers, his family, and his church. He trusted in your plan, your power, and your promises.

Teach me to number my days to trust more in your power and strength. Help me to live each day purposefully and lovingly.

I love you and look forward to receiving a heart filled with your wisdom.

In your name I pray,
Amen.

 
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