What is the meaning of Psalm 90:12?

Psalm 90:12 reads: "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom" (KJV).

This verse, nestled within the larger context of Psalm 90, offers profound insights into the human condition, the nature of time, and the pursuit of wisdom. To fully grasp its meaning, we must consider the broader context of the psalm, the historical background, and the theological implications.

Psalm 90 is attributed to Moses, making it unique among the Psalms. It is a prayer that reflects on the eternal nature of God contrasted with the fleeting existence of humanity. The psalm begins with a majestic declaration of God's eternal nature: "Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God" (Psalm 90:1-2, NIV). This sets the stage for a meditation on human mortality and the brevity of life.

In verses 3-11, Moses contemplates the transient nature of human life, acknowledging that our days are limited and filled with toil and trouble. He writes, "You turn people back to dust, saying, 'Return to dust, you mortals.' A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night" (Psalm 90:3-4, NIV). This stark contrast between God's eternal perspective and our fleeting existence leads to a sober reflection on the human condition.

It is within this context that we find verse 12: "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom." This verse is a prayer for divine instruction, a plea for God to help us understand the brevity of our lives so that we might live wisely.

The phrase "teach us to number our days" carries the idea of recognizing and acknowledging the limited time we have on earth. It is a call to mindfulness, urging us to be aware of the fleeting nature of our existence. This awareness is not meant to lead to despair but rather to a deeper appreciation of the time we have and a more intentional use of it.

In the second part of the verse, "that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom," we see the purpose of this awareness. The goal of numbering our days is to cultivate wisdom. In biblical terms, wisdom is more than just knowledge or intelligence; it is a way of living that aligns with God's will and purposes. Proverbs 9:10 tells us, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding" (NIV). Wisdom, therefore, involves a reverent relationship with God and a commitment to living according to His principles.

By asking God to teach us to number our days, we are seeking a heart of wisdom that understands the importance of aligning our lives with God's eternal perspective. This involves prioritizing what truly matters, such as relationships, character, and our walk with God, over the transient and often trivial pursuits that can consume our time.

This prayer for wisdom is echoed in the New Testament as well. In Ephesians 5:15-17, the Apostle Paul writes, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is" (NIV). Paul, like Moses, urges believers to live wisely by making the most of their time and understanding God's will.

Theologically, Psalm 90:12 also reflects a humble acknowledgment of our dependence on God. It recognizes that true wisdom comes from Him and that we need His guidance to navigate the complexities of life. This humility is a key aspect of biblical wisdom, as it acknowledges our limitations and God's infinite understanding.

Moreover, this verse invites us to a life of intentionality. In a world filled with distractions and endless demands on our time, it calls us to focus on what is truly important. It challenges us to live with purpose, to invest in what has eternal significance, and to avoid the pitfalls of a life lived without direction or meaning.

Psalm 90:12 also speaks to the inevitability of human mortality. By numbering our days, we are reminded that life is a precious and finite gift. This awareness can lead to a sense of urgency in living out our faith and fulfilling our God-given purposes. It can inspire us to make a difference in the lives of others, to share the love of Christ, and to leave a legacy of faithfulness.

In Christian literature, this theme is often explored. For example, in "The Imitation of Christ" by Thomas à Kempis, there is an emphasis on the transient nature of life and the importance of living with eternity in mind. Kempis writes, "Happy is he that always hath the hour of his death before his eyes, and daily prepareth himself to die" (Book 1, Chapter 23). This perspective encourages believers to live with a sense of eternal perspective, much like the prayer of Psalm 90:12.

In conclusion, Psalm 90:12 is a profound prayer that invites us to live with wisdom by recognizing the brevity of our lives and seeking God's guidance. It calls us to a life of intentionality, humility, and purpose, aligning our hearts with God's eternal perspective. By numbering our days, we are reminded of the preciousness of time and the importance of living in a way that honors God and fulfills His purposes for our lives. As we seek to apply our hearts unto wisdom, we can trust that God will lead us in paths of righteousness and help us make the most of the time we have been given.