Interpretation of the Bible / Psalm 90:4

The Book of Psalms is a collection of the most beautiful prayers of ancient Israel. Chapter 90 is the only psalm attributed to Moses, the great leader and prophet of Israel. In the opening verses, Moses describes the eternity of God and His sovereignty over humanity. In verse 4, we find a striking analogy that helps us better understand God's view of time.

The divine perspective of duration

For God, time is not an obstacle, but an opportunity to reveal Himself. Humans live in a continuous flow of past, present, and future, but God is timeless—that is, He is timeless because He created it. Psalm 90:4 shows us that what seems like a thousand years to us is but a passing day for Him.

In fact, God created us as a series of days, not as eternal beings, precisely so that we could enjoy the joy of experiencing time. For God, time is not a limitation, but a tool through which He can accomplish His work and achieve His perfect purposes on earth.

Psalm 90:4 and our lives

God's perspective on time not only comforts us in times of sorrow and confusion but also helps us understand our lives. In biblical cosmology, human life, though temporary, is precious because it is sacred. God created us in His own image and likeness and called us to be co-creators with Him. Life is like time: we are given a limited period to live it, savor it, and use it to fulfill God's purpose within us.

Psalm 90:4 reminds us that we must live wisely, making the most of every moment. We must value our lives and the time allotted to us not as something worldly or transitory, but as an integral part of our divine being. We must strive for the eternal, for that which will not pass away with time, and reject that which is temporary and only fleetingly attractive.