Spending Our Time

We are merely moving shadows,
and all our busy rushing ends in nothing.
We heap up wealth,
not knowing who will spend it.
And so, Lord, where do I put my hope?
My only hope is in you.
Psalm 39:6-7, NLT*

Deep in our spirits, if we pause long enough to listen, don’t we know the truth of these verses?

Whether we’re heaping up wealth like the psalmist’s example, stacking up accomplishments, or just trying to keep ahead of the demands of the day, we can be caught in this frenetic cycle of producing more.

At the end of our lives, what really matters? (Click to tweet.)

Yes, we need to provide for our families, be faithful to our employers or our callings, but aren’t these means to an end?

Isn’t it really about the relationships: with family, friends, strangers… with God?

The Shorter Westminster Catechism speaks to me even though it’s not part of my denominational heritage. In part it says:

Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.

We were made for activity, work and responsibility, but not to worship these things. (Click to tweet.)

Let’s pray with David, “Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be.” (Psalm 39: 4a, NLT*) And, Lord, open our eyes to the best way to spend that time—and with whom.

In each day, Lord, each moment, remind us that You’re present. Help us learn to love and enjoy You—and the people in our lives—in the process of doing life. Help us learn to be, not just to do.

Here’s a song from Third Day to remind us of our focus: “My Hope is in You.

*New Living Translation (NLT) Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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