Psalm 90:12 NIV — Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

A few years ago I heard a radio announcer share a story about an island off the coast of Norway that has daylight for over two months at a time. The reporter stated that due to the long hours of daylight, and no night or darkness, the people of the town had started a petition to do away with clocks and time. I have later learned that this was a story made up for publicity and to entice people to visit Norway. Click here to read an article about this ploy for publicity.

Nevertheless, the idea of having no clocks made me think. My first thought was how nice it would be to not be tied to a schedule. We could all be footloose and fancy-free. We would be more apt to be present in each moment if we didn’t really have a way to plan ahead. It would be like being on vacation all the time. However, the more I thought about it the more I realized this would not be a good idea. How would we make doctor appointments, meet for lunch dates, or know when to watch our favorite tv show? We are instructed in the Bible about the importance of time. Today’s featured scripture reminds us that time is valuable. God wants us to realize the importance of using our time wisely while also not being too tied to our schedules. God wants us to live in the moment every day while still keeping an eye toward tomorrow. 

Let’s pray. Dear God, thank You for today. Guide my thoughts and actions today. Help me to realize the importance of planning but not be consumed by looking forward too much. Help me to enjoy this moment and make the most of my time. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.