Eternal God, Frail Man – Ps 90
Written by Moses, Psalm 90 is a powerful reflection on the eternality of God and the transience of man. Maybe Moses wrote it as he compared the great mountains created by God with the Israelite people wandering in the wilderness for forty years waiting for a generation to die.
Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
Psalm 90:1–2
As he compares God (who made the mountains and views a thousand years as one day) with man (whose whole life is like grass), Moses asks for wisdom to know how to live each day and mercy to enjoy the Lord and to make a difference that will count for God.
The reason life seems so futile and short for man is because of our sin. Mankind essentially abides under God’s wrath due to sin (v.7-8). Only the mercy of God allows man’s life to have meaning and returns joy lost through sorrow. Yet, we know and Moses knew that God is a merciful God and so, like Moses, we should….
- Admit God’s eternal power and our weakness and frailty (v.1-11)
- Ask God to give us wisdom to live our days in the right way (v.12)
- Ask God for mercy on us so that we can find joy and meaning in life (v.13-17)
The only hope for mankind is a restored relationship with God found in Jesus Christ. Only through His provision of salvation can we experience the beauty of the Lord and receive eternal life. We don’t have to die without purpose. We can live forever through Jesus. And with God’s help, each day can have meaning and significance if lives for the Lord and blessed by the Lord.
Prayer: Father, thank You for reminding me of who You are and who I am. You are the eternal God. I am frail and will soon die. But thank You for showing mercy to me. Thank You for Jesus who gives eternal life. Because of Your mercy, help me to live wisely and look to You to bless what I do today. Help me to be busy doing that which pleases You and will bring You glory.