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101121 Weekly Devotional

All in a Day’s Work

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
–Psalm 90:12

Many years ago, a friend of mine wrote a simple chorus that began with the words “From everlasting to everlasting, you are God” (Ps. 90:2) and ended with the phrase, “Teach us to number our days.” It was a poignant reminder every time I sang those words to make each day count.

The origin of our system of a 24-hour day, according to Dr. Nick Lomb, consultant curator of astronomy from the Sidney Observatory, comes from the ancient Egyptians, “who divided day-time into 10 hours they measured with devices such as shadow clocks and added a twilight hour at the beginning and another one at the end of the day-time.” He goes on to say, “Night-time was divided into 12 hours, based on the observation of stars.”

Of course, the way we measure time today has changed. But the fact remains that a “day” means something important to us. Just consider these expressions regarding it:

· One day at a time

· Seize the day (carpe diem)

· Make each day count

· All in a day’s work

· As plain as day

· This is the day (the Lord has made)

When the psalmist asks the Lord to “teach us to number our days” it may be because he understands that there’s a reward to be gained: a heart of wisdom. And, truth be told, isn’t wisdom a spiritual gift that’s sorely needed in our world today? Divisions, uncertainties, and misunderstandings seem to abound. But from everlasting to everlasting our God is still in control. “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” –2 Peter 3:8

“Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.” –Proverbs 3:13-15

I couldn’t have said it any better! Have a nice (numbered) day!

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