Psalm 39

“LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is.” (Psalm 39:4, NLT)

David was in a stressful state. He was surrounded by the talk of the ungodly. He decided that he wouldn’t say a word. Why? Maybe because he was afraid that he would say something he would later regret. Or maybe he knew that if he said anything, it would just draw more ridicule and insult. Whatever the reason, David made up his mind that he would hold his tongue and not sin in his speech. But as he sat in silence, listening to the foolish talk around him, his heart burned within, and he could no longer restrain himself. But rather than speaking his mind to the wicked, he prayed to God.

“Show me, O LORD, how brief and fleeting my time on earth is!” Why would this be important for David to know his lifespan when he was surrounded by so many godless opinions? Perhaps it was because David realized that their arguments began and ended in time and had nothing to do with eternity. Or maybe David figured that to be drawn into their controversy would only waste precious time and distract him from God’s purpose.

David knew that God called him to shepherd the people of Israel. He was equipped to fight the LORD’s battles. And he was gifted as a songwriter and worship leader. His limited days were to be spent in these pursuits and not in chasing after the wind. Perhaps someone else could have tended to these matters, but for David it would have been a distraction from his greater purpose.

I believe it is essential to have a clear idea of our purpose. The apostles knew their primary calling, and it kept them from being distracted by lesser duties. When the Hellenistic widows were being overlooked in the food distribution, they refused to get distracted. Instead, they delegated this task to others who could fully commit to it.

“They said, ‘We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.’” (Acts 6:2–4, NLT)

What is your life’s purpose? What has God called you to do? What do you want to be remembered for? Don’t let yourself get sidetracked. Ask God to show you the shortness of your life and help you use your days for His glory.