A Heart of Wisdom in a Fleeting Life

"Now is our chance to choose the right side. God is holding back to give us that chance. It won't last forever. We must take it or leave it."  - C. S. Lewis, British author, scholar, and prominent Christian apologist (1898-1963)

Opening Question: When faced with a challenge, do you tend to rely first on a Google search, a friend's advice, or prayer and scripture?

To live a worthwhile, regret-free life, we must use our time wisely with God's guidance. By examining Psalms 1 and 90 alongside Proverbs 3:5-6, we will discover how to live purposefully and rely on God’s wisdom through life's brevity and His constant direction.

Let's begin with: The Basis - Making Every Day Count.

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

The prayer in the psalm recognizes human fragility and finitude, mirroring the sentiment in James 4:14 NIV that life is merely a passing mist. By acknowledging our brief existence, we are prompted to prioritize eternal significance over fleeting worldly goals, which is the foundation of true wisdom. 

When we truly grasp life's fleeting nature, our priorities naturally shift from chasing "treasures on earth" that will fade to investing in things with lasting impact, such as building relationships, serving others, sharing our faith, and aligning our work with God's purposes.

Putting It into Practice:

• Begin and end each day with prayer and gratitude for the gift of life, seeking to live it in a way that honors God.
• Mindful living prioritizes core values and meaningful connections (spiritual concerns, relationships, higher purposes) over superficial distractions and selfish choices. 
• The understanding of the contrast between a limited human lifespan and God's eternal nature can lead to a sense of humility and an increased reliance on divine knowledge and power. 

Now we consider: The Path to Wisdom - Prayer and God's Word.

Scripture Reading: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

To gain a heart of wisdom, as requested in Psalm 90:12 (NIV), one must follow the instruction found in Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV). This requires an intentional reliance on God's guidance rather than solely on personal intellect, a path fostered through consistent prayer and engagement with the Bible. 

Consistent prayer and engaging with Scripture are the practical tools that build this trust, helping us hear God's voice and understand His perspective, prioritizing a higher, divine understanding over our inherently limited human viewpoint.

Putting It into Practice:

• Acknowledge God in all your ways, and trust in His direction. Pray for divine guidance before every choice.
• Daily Bible reading helps you understand God's will and make wise choices.  
• Identify areas you try to control (finances, relationships, career) and surrender them to God in prayer.
• Talk with trusted advisors, pastors, or friends who can provide safety and help discern God's direction. 

The final segment of our discussion will center on The Fruitful Life - Faithfulness.

Scripture Reading: "Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers." Psalm 1:1-3 NIV

A life that honors God and is stable and purposeful can be achieved by acknowledging the brevity of life and seeking wisdom through prayer and scripture, which should lead to faithful living, characterized by righteous choices and spiritual fruitfulness. 

Constant engagement with scripture leads to "prospering" in everything one does—meaning their character and actions produce positive, lasting results (fruit). 

Putting It into Practice:

• We can practice mindfulness in our daily routines—like commuting and doing chores—by using these tasks for prayer or listening to sermons/podcasts. 
• Invest your time, energy, and resources in things that last: sharing the gospel, serving others, and nurturing relationships.
• Create space with weekly Sabbath or monthly solitude to evaluate goals and connect with God, fostering spiritual growth. 

In essence, implementing these strategies allows us to shift from mere existence to intentional living, cultivating wisdom and a faithful life that honors God

Prayer: "Dear Lord, teach us to value time and pursue Your wisdom daily. May Your favor establish the work of our hands as we follow You. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Yours in Christ,

Emily