April 14th - Reading 12: Psalms 39-41

“Certainly every man at his best state is but a vapor.” (Psalm 39:5c)

We don’t like to think of our lives as just a vapor, but what exactly is a vapor? It is here one moment, and gone the next. And like a spray of cologne, it can be pleasingly powerful in the moment. It is not simply nothing, it’s just not long-lasting. That may be a profitable perspective regarding our lives.

Our days are limited, passing quickly, here today and gone tomorrow. However, the Lord has purpose in the precise number of days He has allotted to each one of us. He instructs us to “redeem the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16), so how do we do that?

First, we can be encouraged that Jesus’ time of public ministry was only three years, so whatever time we have left can still be used to impact His kingdom. It’s not the amount of time that is important. It’s how we allow Him to direct our time.

Secondly, we can diligently study and implement His Word, seeking to hear His voice and follow His direction. In the midst of trials, there are people who need to hear His gospel of love and forgiveness. We may be an encouragement to others as they watch us endure and remain faithful. For others, we may be the only “Bible” they ever read as we walk in love and forgiveness made possible only through the Holy Spirit living in us. We can determine to use the remaining days of our lives to bring glory to Him.

As we deal with this temporary life and the ravages of sin in this world, let’s remember this is not our home. We are just passing through. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, every pain will be gone, every sorrow forgot, and we will spend a joyous eternity with each other and with our Redeeming Lord. May that truth energize us today as we fervently intercede on behalf of our loved ones, our nation and our world.