April 25, 2011

Psalm 90 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Mark 8:14-21, 1 Corinthians 14:13-25, Judges 19

Journal Entry

Scripture

"The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty, yet their span is but toil and trouble, they are soon gone, and we fly away. Who considers the power of your anger, and your wrath according to the fear of you? So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom." (vv. 10-12)

Observation

This passage clearly teaches us a few important facts about our precious life. First, it teaches us that our life on earth is short (70-80 years of life). No matter how much we try to keep ourselves healthy to prolong our days on earth, our life will one day come to an end. Because of this truth, we must remember that this world is not our home; we should live daily with our heart set on things above, with a living hope of Christ's resurrection. That's when we can say, "Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations" (v. 1). Our true dwelling place is God, instead of this world. Second, it teaches us that our life on earth is filled with struggles ("toil and trouble"). We should not be surprised when life becomes a struggle. It is expected. So, when it comes, we need to embrace it in the Lord instead of trying to get rid of it. Third, we need to depend on God the Spirit to teach us the brevity of life and how to live well and wisely for the remaining days of our lives.

Application

Because this world is not my home, I must try not to be so attached to this world and anything in this world. My true satisfaction is found in the Lord ("who") instead of the world ("what"). All the wonderful gifts that God has given me in this world should ultimately point me to my God, the giver of those gifts. One of those wonderful gifts may be a struggle or trouble, because it keeps me depend on God's strength all the more. In the midst of my struggle, God becomes more real. His strength sustains me in my weakness.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for teaching me today how short life really is. Before I know it, it will come to an end. Lord, I want to make today count! I want to give my very best to know you, love you, and serve you faithfully. I want to welcome every opportunity to bless people around me with Christ's love. Lord, thank you for the hope of eternal life that promises that you will make all things new and beautiful even out of the dust. Lord, may this truth refresh my heart today as I walk with you. In Christ's name, Amen.

--Stephen Han