For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. O LORD of Heaven’s Armies, what joy for those who trust in you. 

~Psalm 84:11-12 NLT

As we drove eastward early one morning for a medical appointment, my husband and I were immersed in the sunrise. I snapped a series of photos, trying to capture the colors. They, however, didn’t do the fiery horizon justice. Still, it helped remind me of our great Creator’s promises. The activity also distracted me from my concerns about a health problem my husband experienced. Rather, I focused on the brevity of life.

Seventy years are given to us! Some even live to eighty. But even the best years are filled with pain and trouble; soon they disappear, and we fly away.

~Psalm 90:10 NLT

Both of us are in our seventies, and the truth the psalmist referred to becomes more evident every day. As reality hits with medical procedures and potential outcomes that could go well, while keeping in mind possible side effects, reaching out to the Lord is essential. And I go to His word.

Satisfy us each morning with your unfailing love, so we may sing for joy to the end of our lives. … Let us, your servants, see you work again; let our children see your glory. And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful!

~Psalm 90:14, 16-17 NLT

My tears may fall in stressful situations, as the “what-ifs” and the “what-nows” all press in on me, but when I take God’s hand reaching down to me, He satisfies me with His unfailing love. While trusting Him to bless our efforts, songs of joy will result all the way to the end of my earthly life.

Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.

~Psalm 90:12 NLT

As the years pass, I realize more and more how short this time on earth is. I know the Holy Spirit is helping me grow in wisdom and will help me practice it.

Although I have less time in front of me than behind me, I still have ample opportunity for growth. What has the Lord led you through, and how has He met your needs? Where does He want you to share these realizations?

Who can you encourage with what you’ve learned? Younger ears than yours are waiting for answers.

Lord, teach me to notice time’s tapering and seize the opportunity for growth. Show me where and to whom I can bring encouragement with the lessons You’ve taught me. I trust You to bless my efforts. In Jesus’s name, amen.

 

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2026: The Brevity of Life: Anita van der Elst: All Rights Reserved.