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

As we step into this year, if there is one truth that must guide us, shape us, and stay before us, it is this verse. Let it be our theme and our prayer, that God would teach us to number our days, so that we may gain a heart of wisdom. In this verse, the Psalmist reminds us that life is not endless, and our days are not random. Each sunrise is a gift, and each sunset quietly testifies that time is moving forward. When we ignore this truth, we drift into living carelessly, postponing obedience, love, repentance, and purpose. But when we acknowledge the brevity of life, we begin to live intentionally; valuing moments, stewarding opportunities, and placing weight on what truly matters in God’s sight.

To “number our days” does not mean living in fear of death, but living with clarity about life. Wisdom is born when we realize that our time is limited and therefore precious. The world teaches us to measure life by success, wealth, or applause, yet Scripture teaches us to measure life by faithfulness. A heart of wisdom learns to prioritize eternal things over temporary distractions. It asks daily, “Lord, how should I live today so that it honors You?” This kind of wisdom reshapes our choices, our relationships, and our devotion.

Ultimately, this prayer is a cry for God’s guidance, not human calculation. Only the Lord can teach us how to live well within the boundaries of time. When God teaches us to number our days, He softens our hearts, sharpens our discernment, and aligns our lives with His will. Such wisdom leads us to humility, gratitude, and obedience, so that when our days are complete, they will testify that we lived not merely long lives, but meaningful ones, shaped by God’s eternal purpose.