Debbie Swindell

Time, that elusive treasure, often slips through our fingers unnoticed as we rush through the familiar routine of our daily lives. Have you ever considered how quickly the weeks and months go by? Recently, I found myself in a reflective season, taking stock of how I spend my time and with whom I choose to share it. Each passing year is a gentle reminder of this gift’s precious and limited nature.

Life truly is fleeting. The Scriptures remind us repeatedly of this reality. In Psalm 139:16, we learn that God has numbered our days—yes, each of them! This thought invites us to pause and consider the path we’re on. In Psalm 39, David articulates our transient nature, comparing our lives to a mere whisper in the wind. This vivid imagery compels us to confront how quickly our days can vanish if we are not paying attention. Similarly, Moses in Psalm 90 wisely contrasts our fleeting moments with God’s eternal existence, encouraging us to embrace wisdom in acknowledging our limited time.

Embracing our mortality can be a powerful catalyst for change. Every breath we take is a divine gift, as Job 12:10 reminds us. This truth can radically shift our perspectives and priorities. Living without awareness feels like trying to navigate a maze with blinders on. Just as God knows each star by name (Psalm 147:4), He has counted our days meticulously, reminding us to treasure every moment.

Take a moment for introspection: What if this year were your last? This thought often jolts me back to clarity. It’s so easy to get caught up in a whirlwind of tasks, balancing the significant alongside the trivial, sometimes overlooking what truly matters. How might your outlook change if you knew this was your final year? Would you choose your words more intentionally, expressing love and gratitude? Would you take steps to mend broken relationships? What worries would you let go of to focus on what truly holds value?

In my daily ministry, the landscape constantly changes; it takes on various forms. Prioritizing face-to-face interactions requires a flexible approach to my time, as opportunities often arise unexpectedly. This fluidity reflects how I aspire to live—open to divine encounters and spontaneous connections.

Have you ever considered creating a “life list”—not just a bucket list filled with travel destinations and adrenaline-filled experiences but a heartfelt collection of meaningful life goals? My own life list is a living document—I actively work on it every day, with a desire to honor God through my efforts. I’ve purposefully adjusted how I manage my time to make room for these aspirations.

Our true goal should be to invest our time in what genuinely matters—not just for the present but for the legacy we leave behind, always keeping eternity in view. Remember, our days are counted by the One who grants us life. Let’s commit to cherishing every moment, pouring our energies into what endures. After all, making each moment count is not just a noble idea; it’s the essence of a life well-lived.