Psalm 90

Read Psalm 90

Helpful Background Information: 

• Psalm 90 gives us one of the clearest pictures in the Bible of God’s eternal nature. It is likely the oldest Psalm we have, written by Moses when the people of God were wandering in the wilderness. 

• Moses reflects on God’s eternity in the first six verses. God has no beginning, God has no end. He created all things; he has been, is, and always will be. He will never change. God is the Lord over time. Everything that happens in a thousand years: generations coming and going, empires rising and falling, advancement in technologies; to God, it's all like a short watch in the night. 

• Starting in verse 7, Moses changes gears. He turns to reflect on man’s frailty and the brevity of life, which is due to man’s sinfulness. Sin leads to destruction, and it should be taken very seriously. Yet the mercy, grace, and love of God are eternally satisfying for all who turn from their sin and put their trust in God; his favor will establish us as we gaze upon his glory (vv. 13-17). 

• A key text to meditate on is Psalm 90:12. Because of the shortness of life, we should develop wisdom in our hearts. It’s very wise to understand how short life really is. We should always reflect on the shortness of life, the nearness of death, and the eternality of God. Knowing this should make us work hard and not waste time, engaging in habits and tasks that will have eternal benefit. 

Reflection Questions: 

• God’s favor and steadfast love are described as satisfying and lasting (vv. 14–17). How can focusing on God’s eternal love help reframe how you use your time and energy each day?

• What does it mean to “number your days” in a practical sense? How can this mindset affect your choices, habits, and goals this summer? 

• This summer, how can you create more space in your schedule for things of eternal value (relationships, worship, service, growth in Christ)?