Have you ever experienced seasons when the moments, days and weeks seemed to slip away without noticing?
If we are honest, most of us will say yes. Maybe we were consumed by the business of every day routines, or by a difficult season when merely staying alive seemed like a challenge. Regardless, we often look back on these seasons with a great sense of regret and the feeling that moments were wasted. Time was wasted. And sometimes, it was stolen by complaining and ungratefulness.
The book of Psalms (a great place to start when you come to realize the shortfalls of our humanity and want to refocus on God) gives voice and expression to this tendency in a prayer by Moses. Moses asks God to “arrest” his impulse to simply just drift through the days.
“Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
I cannot begin to imagine the pain and the sorrow that so many people are experiencing with losing loved ones in Hurricane Ian in Florida, but I am convinced every single one of them would give anything to have just a few more moments.
Many lost their homes and possessions and things they value, things they might have complained about before, but now that it's gone, the value is felt. Do not take the time you have for granted – no matter the season. Do not take your blessings for granted.
This Thanksgiving, make a point of it and express your thankfulness. Let others hear. Imagine if we can start a culture in our homes of thankfulness and appreciation?
Be thankful, enjoy life, love people, and allow God to show you how much He loves you.
Let us number the days, tune our ears heavenward to ensure that this season will not slip away. That we might have our eyes wide open to see that the Lord is present and active and good!
