Psalm 90.9-10 offers a sobering perspective on the brevity of human life. It reminds us that our existence is finite, filled with challenges, and ultimately transitional. Each of these truths challenges us to live with purpose, compassion, and an eternal mindset.
Life Is Timed
The psalmist observes that “the days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” This highlights the fleeting nature of life. Even the longest life spans are bound by time, and for many, the years seem to pass more quickly than expected.
The brevity of life calls for action, especially in our youth. Ecclesiastes 12.1 exhorts us to “remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth.” This is a call to prioritize God early, making the most of our time before the inevitable challenges of age arrive.
Interesting Fact: Scientists have estimated that the average human life is around 25,000-30,000 days, emphasizing how precious each day truly is.
Life Is Troubled
The psalmist also acknowledges that life is marked by “labour and sorrow.” Hard work and grief are inevitable, but they shape us, building character and empathy. Moreover, our struggles can draw us closer to Christ, who was no stranger to suffering.
Because life is troubled, we are called to extend compassion and patience to others. Ephesians 4.32 instructs, “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Recognizing the universality of struggle should lead us to practice grace in our interactions.
Nuanced Insight: Studies show that acts of kindness and forgiveness not only benefit the recipient but also improve the mental and physical health of the giver.
Life Is a Transition
The psalmist concludes, “…it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” This metaphor of flying away points to the transient nature of life and the promise of eternity. For believers, this is a source of hope—a reminder that this life is not all there is. For those who are not saved, it serves as a call to prepare for what lies beyond.
Jesus echoes this eternal focus in Matthew 6.19: “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal.” Living with eternity in mind shifts our priorities from the temporal to the eternal.
Historical Nugget: The phrase “fly away” evokes imagery of the soul’s ascension, a concept widely held in ancient Jewish and early Christian thought, symbolizing liberation and entrance into God’s presence.
Living in Light of Psalm 90.9-10
The message of Psalm 90 challenges us to acknowledge life’s brevity, face its troubles with faith, and live with eternity in mind. By doing so, we align our hearts with God’s purposes and ensure that our “tale” is one that glorifies Him. May we live wisely, love compassionately, and trust deeply in the hope of eternity.
