Daily Devotional for Thursday, July 11

David’s Petition

“Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am,” Psalm 39:4.

As a pastor, my father counseled with many people over the years who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and given only a short time to live. This difficult news was always quite life-changing for the individual and his family. For some, it was completely devastating and caused great heartache and fear. On the other hand, there were many that were driven to get their life right with the Lord. The knowledge of their impending death changed their perspective and caused them to see more clearly that which was truly important.

So much of our lives are spent on frivolous activities that seem to be of great importance at the time. Some may seek to amass great riches or to be continually entertained. Others seek to build up their positions and influence within their jobs or community, and others are focused on having great physical appeal. All is vanity. David recognized this and asked the Lord to cause him to understand his days were numbered so he would use them wisely.

It is crucial that we recognize our days on this earth are numbered as well. “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away” (James 4:14). Consider how you spend your time and what is important to you. Do your daily activities align with what God has called you to do? This life is truly fleeting, and we are not guaranteed tomorrow. If you have lost loved ones with whom you have delayed sharing Christ, now is the time. We need to get to work for the Lord while it is called today.

REFLECTION
“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15, 16).

Darla Goodrum