TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Psalms 90:12–17. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
These are the petitions of this prayer, grounded upon the foregoing meditations and acknowledgments. Is any afflicted? Let him learn thus to pray. Four things they are here directed to pray for: -
I.For a sanctified use of the sad dispensation they were now under.
Being condemned to have our days shortened, "Lord, teach us to number our days (Psa 90:12); Lord, give us grace duly to consider how few they are, and how little a while we have to live in this world." Note,
1.It is an excellent art rightly to number our days, so as not to be out in our calculation, as he was who counted upon many years to come when, that night, his soul was required of him. We must live under a constant apprehension of the shortness and uncertainty of life and the near approach of death and eternity. We must so number our days as to compare our work with them, and mind it accordingly with a double diligence, as those that have no time to trifle.
2.Those that would learn this arithmetic must pray for divine instruction, must go to God, and beg of him to teach them by his Spirit, to put them upon considering and to give them a good understanding.
3.We then number our days to good purpose when thereby our hearts are inclined and engaged to true wisdom, that is, to the practice of serious godliness. To be religious is to be wise; this is a thing to which it is necessary that we apply our hearts, and the matter requires and deserves a close application, to which frequent thoughts of the uncertainty of our continuance here, and the certainty of our removal hence, will very much contribute.
II.For the turning away of God's anger from them, that though the decree had gone forth, and was past revocation, there was no remedy, but they must die in the wilderness: "Yet return, O Lord! be thou reconciled to us, and let it repent thee concerning thy servants (Psa 90:13); send us tidings of peace to comfort us again after these heavy tidings. How long must we look upon ourselves as under thy wrath, and when shall we have some token given us of our restoration to thy favour? We are thy servants, thy people (Isa 64:9); when wilt thou change thy way toward us?" In answer to this prayer, and upon their profession of repentance (Num 14:39, Num 14:40), God, in the next chapter, proceeding with the laws concerning sacrifices (Num 15:1, etc.), which was a token that it repented him concerning his servants; for, if the Lord had been pleased to kill them, he would not have shown them such things as these.
III.For comfort and joy in the returns of God's favour to them, Psa 90:14, Psa 90:15.
They pray for the mercy of God; for they pretend not to plead any merit of their own. Have mercy upon us, O God! is a prayer we are all concerned to say Amen to. Let us pray for early mercy, the seasonable communications of divine mercy, that God's tender mercies may speedily prevent us, early in the morning of our days, when we are young and flourishing, Psa 90:6. Let us pray for the true satisfaction and happiness which are to be had only in the favour and mercy of God, Psa 4:6, Psa 4:7. A gracious soul, if it may but be satisfied of God's lovingkindness, will be satisfied with it, abundantly satisfied, will take up with that, and will take up with nothing short of it. Two things are pleaded to enforce this petition for God's mercy: - 1. That it would be a full fountain of future joys: "O satisfy us with thy mercy, not only that we may be easy and at rest within ourselves, which we can never be while we lie under thy wrath, but that we may rejoice and be glad, not only for a time, upon the first indications of thy favour, but all our days, though we are to spend them in the wilderness." With respect to those that make God their chief joy, as their joy may be full (Jo1 1:4), so it may be constant, even in this vale of tears; it is their own fault if they are not glad all their days, for his mercy will furnish them with joy in tribulation and nothing can separate them from it. 2. That it would be a sufficient balance to their former griefs: "Make us glad according to the days wherein thou has afflicted us; let the days of our joy in thy favour be as many as the days of our pain for thy displeasure have been and as pleasant as those have been gloomy. Lord, thou usest to set the one over-against the other (Ecc 7:14); do so in our case. Let it suffice that we have drunk so long of the cup of trembling; now put into our hands the cup of salvation." God's people reckon the returns of God's lovingkindness a sufficient recompence for all their troubles.
IV.For the progress of the work of God among them notwithstanding, Psa 90:16, Psa 90:17.
1. That he would manifest himself in carrying it on: "Let thy work appear upon thy servants; let it appear that thou hast wrought upon us, to bring us home to thyself and to fit us for thyself." God's servants cannot work for him unless he work upon them, and work in them both to will and to do; and then we may hope the operations of God's providence will be apparent for us when the operations of his grace are apparent upon us. "Let thy work appear, and in it thy glory will appear to us and those that shall come after us." In praying for God's grace God's glory must be our end; and we must therein have an eye to our children as well as to ourselves, that they also may experience God's glory appearing upon them, so as to change them into the same image, from glory to glory. Perhaps, in this prayer, they distinguish between themselves and their children, for so God distinguished in his late message to them (Num 14:31, Your carcases shall fall in this wilderness, but your little ones I will bring into Canaan): "Lord," say they, "let thy work appear upon us, to reform us, and bring us to a better temper, and then let thy glory appear to our children, in performing the promise to them which we have forfeited the benefit of." 2. That he would countenance and strengthen them in carrying it on, in doing their part towards it. (1.) That he would smile upon them in it: Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us; let it appear that God favours us. Let us have God's ordinances kept up among us and the tokens of God's presence with his ordinances; so some. We may apply this petition both to our sanctification and to our consolation. Holiness is the beauty of the Lord our God; let that be upon us in all we say and do; let the grace of God in us, and the light of our good works, make our faces to shine (that is the comeliness God puts upon us, and those are comely indeed who are so beautified), and then let divine consolations put gladness into our hearts, and a lustre upon our countenances, and that also will be the beauty of the Lord upon us, as our God. (2.) That he would prosper them in it: Establish thou the work of our hands upon us. God's working upon us (Psa 90:16) does not discharge us from using our utmost endeavours in serving him and working out our salvation. But, when we have done all, we must wait upon God for the success, and beg of him to prosper our handy works, to give us to compass what we aim at for his glory. We are so unworthy of divine assistance, and yet so utterly insufficient to bring any thing to pass without it, that we have need to be earnest for it and to repeat the request: Yea, the work of our hands, establish thou it, and, in order to that, establish us in it.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
3 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
“So make your right hand known that fettered we may gain wisdom of heart.” Some codices say “trained”; others “fettered.” “Trained” implies one thing; “fettered,” another. What, then, is the meaning of “make your right hand known”? Why have you restrained your right hand so long, God? “Why draw back your hand and keep it idle beneath your garment?” says another psalm. Here is its meaning: we are lying prostrate in sickness; we are powerless in our sins; send forth your right hand and raise us up. Why do you keep your right hand so long idle beneath your cloak? Your heart overflows with a goodly theme;37 send forth your right hand and set us free. Make known to us the mystery that has been hidden from generation to generation. “Make your right hand known.” What are you pilfering, Arius? The psalmist did not say, “Make your right hand,” for God was never without his right hand. But what did he say? Your right hand, that you have always had and that has been in your bosom, make it known to us. Because we are not able to know him abiding in his Godhead, he assumes our humanity, and in that way we know him.
"Make Your right hand so well known" [Psalm 90:12]. This is the reading of most of the Greek copies: not of some in Latin, which is thus, "Make Your right hand well known to me." What is, "Your right hand," but Your Christ, of whom it is said, And to whom is the Arm of the Lord revealed? [Isaiah 53:1] Make Him so well known, that Your faithful may learn in Him to ask and to hope for those things rather of You as rewards of their faith, which do not appear in the Old Testament, but are revealed in the New: that they may not imagine that the happiness derived from earthly and temporal blessings is to be highly esteemed, desired, or loved, and thus their feet slip, when they see it in men who honour You not: that their steps may not give way, while they know not how to number Your anger. Finally, in accordance with this prayer of the Man that is His, He has made His Christ so well known as to show by His sufferings that not these rewards which seem so highly prized in the Old Testament, where they are shadows of things to come, but things eternal, are to be desired. The right hand of God may also be understood in this sense, as that by which He will separate His saints from the wicked: because that hand becomes well known, when it scourges every son whom He receives, and suffers him not, in greater anger, to prosper in his sins, but in His mercy scourges him with the left, that He may place him purified on His right hand. [Matthew 25:33] The reading of most copies, "make Your right hand well known to me," may be referred either to Christ, or to eternal happiness: for God has not a right hand in bodily shape, as He has not that anger which is aroused into violent passion.
A hermit said, ‘If you lose gold or silver, you can find something as good as you lost. But the man who loses time can never make up what he has lost.’
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Summary
Psalms 90:12 presents a profound prayer, traditionally attributed to Moses, that implores God to impart a deep, spiritual understanding of life's inherent brevity and fragility. This divine instruction to "number our days" transcends mere chronological counting, serving instead as a call for a profound spiritual reckoning. The ultimate purpose of this awareness is to "apply our hearts unto wisdom," signifying a wholehearted, intentional commitment to living in alignment with God's eternal purposes, prioritizing what truly matters in light of human mortality and God's everlasting nature.
Context
Literary Context
Psalm 90 stands as a unique and ancient prayer, traditionally attributed to Moses, making it a foundational piece within the Psalter. It establishes a stark theological contrast between the eternal, unchanging nature of God and the fleeting, temporary existence of humanity. The preceding verses, such as Psalms 90:3-6 and Psalms 90:7-11, vividly lament human mortality, describing life as a quickly passing dream, grass that withers, or a tale that is told. This brevity is often linked to God's righteous judgment against sin, highlighting humanity's fallen state. Against this sobering backdrop of divine wrath and human transience, verse 12 emerges as a heartfelt plea for divine intervention—a request for wisdom to navigate this brief existence meaningfully, rather than succumbing to despair, recklessness, or the futility of a life lived apart from God's purposes.
Historical & Cultural Context
Composed by Moses, likely during the forty years of wandering in the wilderness, Psalm 90 reflects the harsh realities and profound spiritual lessons of that era. The generation that left Egypt was condemned to die in the wilderness due to their disobedience and unbelief, making mortality a pervasive and immediate reality for Moses and the Israelites. This historical context imbues the psalm with a deep sense of human frailty, the consequences of sin, and the stark contrast with God's enduring faithfulness. Culturally, ancient Israel understood time not merely as a linear progression but as a divinely ordained gift, with each day an opportunity for obedience and worship. The "heart" (לֵבָב, lêbâb) in Hebrew thought was the seat of intellect, will, and emotion, representing the totality of a person's inner being. Thus, "applying the heart" meant a complete, intentional orientation of one's entire self toward a particular goal, signifying a holistic commitment of one's inner life.
Key Themes
Psalm 90 is rich with theological themes that converge powerfully in verse 12. A central theme is the contrast between divine eternality and human mortality, emphasizing God's timelessness (e.g., Psalms 90:2) against humanity's brief lifespan. This psalm also powerfully conveys the theme of divine judgment and wrath against sin (e.g., Psalms 90:7-9), which contributes to the brevity and toil of human life. Within this sobering reality, the plea for wisdom emerges as a critical theme, highlighting humanity's dependence on God for insight into purposeful living. The verse underscores the stewardship of time, urging believers to live intentionally and make the most of their days, rather than squandering them. This wisdom is not mere intellectual knowledge but a practical, spiritual discernment that shapes priorities and actions, aligning them with God's will and eternal purposes, echoing similar calls for divine wisdom found throughout the wisdom literature, such as in Proverbs 2:6.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
While the KJV translates it as "teach," the underlying Hebrew root means "to know" or "to ascertain by seeing." In this context, it implies God imparting a deep, experiential knowledge or understanding of the brevity of life. It's not just intellectual instruction, but a divine illumination that enables one to truly grasp and internalize the finite nature of existence, leading to a transformative realization.
This verb means "to weigh out," "to allot," "to enumerate," or "to count." Here, it signifies more than a simple chronological tally. It implies a careful calculation, a thoughtful estimation, or a profound consideration of the limited quantity of one's days. It is about gaining a sober, realistic perspective on life's brevity, leading to a deep appreciation of its preciousness and finite nature.
The root meaning of this verb is "to go" or "to come." When used with "heart," as here, it signifies directing, bringing, or inclining one's heart towards a specific goal. It implies an active, intentional, and deliberate orientation of one's entire inner being—thoughts, desires, and will—towards the pursuit and embodiment of wisdom, rather than a passive reception or a casual inclination.
In Hebrew anthropology, the "heart" is not merely the seat of emotions but the core of one's being—the center of intellect, will, and moral decision-making. To "apply our hearts" means to commit our entire inner person, our deepest thoughts, affections, and intentions, fully and unreservedly to the pursuit and embodiment of wisdom. It represents a holistic dedication of one's inner life.
This term refers to practical, spiritual wisdom, often contrasted with mere intellectual knowledge or cleverness. It is the skill of living life well in God's sight, discerning His will, and aligning one's actions with His divine purposes. It encompasses moral insight, prudence, and the ability to make righteous choices, leading to a life characterized by integrity and godliness.
Verse Breakdown
"So teach us to number our days,"
This opening clause is a direct, urgent petition to God, acknowledging human inability to grasp the true nature of time without divine intervention. The request is for God to impart a profound, spiritual understanding of life's brevity and fragility. It is a prayer for perspective, enabling individuals to recognize that their days are finite and therefore incredibly valuable, not to be squandered but to be lived with intentionality and purpose. This divine teaching is essential for moving beyond a superficial existence to one of deep, purposeful awareness.
"that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom."
This clause reveals the ultimate purpose and desired outcome of "numbering our days." The awareness of mortality is not meant to induce despair or fatalism, but to motivate a wholehearted pursuit of wisdom. This "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokmâh) is not mere intellectual knowledge or cleverness, but a practical, spiritual discernment that shapes one's priorities, decisions, and actions in alignment with God's will. It implies living skillfully and righteously in every aspect of life, making every moment count for eternal purposes, reflecting a life lived in reverence, obedience, and devotion to God.
Literary Devices
Psalm 90:12 employs several potent literary devices that amplify its theological message. Fundamentally, the verse functions as a Prayer, a direct address and petition to God, characteristic of many psalms. The phrase "number our days" uses Metaphor and Synecdoche, where "days" represents the entirety of one's finite life, and "numbering" metaphorically stands for gaining a profound, sober understanding of life's limited duration and inherent value. There is a clear Purpose Clause indicated by "that we may," explicitly linking the divine teaching to the desired outcome of acquiring wisdom. Furthermore, the verse exhibits Synthetic Parallelism, where the second line expands upon and completes the thought of the first. "Numbering our days" (the means) leads to "applying our hearts unto wisdom" (the end), creating a cause-and-effect relationship that deepens the theological message. The concept of the "heart" (לֵבָב) also functions as a Merism or Holistic Representation, standing for the entirety of a person's inner being—intellect, will, and emotion—underscoring the comprehensive nature of the desired commitment to wisdom.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Psalms 90:12 masterfully encapsulates a profound theological truth: human wisdom regarding life's brevity and purpose is not innate but a divine gift. It underscores the critical importance of living with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our earthly existence, though fleeting, is a precious opportunity for spiritual growth and glorifying God. The prayer for wisdom is a recognition of our dependence on God to rightly discern how to steward our time, talents, and resources in a way that truly matters, rather than being consumed by temporal pursuits. This wisdom is fundamentally practical and relational, guiding us to live lives of integrity, purpose, and devotion, understanding that true fulfillment comes from aligning our will with God's. It challenges the common human tendency to live as if life will never end, or conversely, to live in despair, instead calling us to a balanced, purposeful existence rooted in divine insight.
Reflection and Application
Psalms 90:12 offers a timeless and urgent call for introspection in a world often characterized by busyness, distraction, and a relentless focus on immediate gratification. To "number our days" is to cultivate a profound awareness of our mortality, not to induce fear or paralysis, but to ignite a passion for intentional living. It compels us to evaluate our priorities, asking whether our daily pursuits align with our ultimate purpose and eternal destiny. This verse challenges us to move beyond simply existing to truly living, making every moment count for God's glory and the advancement of His kingdom. It encourages a deliberate, prayerful approach to time management, viewing each day as a sacred trust and an opportunity to grow in Christ-likeness and to serve others. The application of our hearts to wisdom means seeking God's perspective in all decisions, allowing His truth to shape our values and guide our actions, ensuring that our lives are built on foundations that endure beyond the fleeting nature of this world.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does it truly mean to "number our days" as Psalm 90:12 suggests?
To "number our days" does not mean to literally count them chronologically, but rather to gain a profound, spiritual awareness and understanding of their finite nature. It's a plea for divine perspective that helps us grasp the brevity and preciousness of life. This awareness should lead to a sober reflection on our mortality, prompting us to live with intentionality, purpose, and wisdom. It's about valuing each day as a gift from God and recognizing that our time on earth is limited, thereby motivating us to make the most of it for eternal significance, rather than squandering it on trivial or temporary pursuits. It's a call to live mindfully and purposefully in light of our ultimate end, ensuring our actions reflect a proper understanding of life's true value.
How is the "wisdom" sought in this verse different from worldly knowledge or cleverness?
The "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokmâh) referred to in Psalms 90:12 is not merely intellectual acumen, human cleverness, or worldly knowledge. Instead, it is a practical, spiritual wisdom that originates from God and enables us to live skillfully and righteously in His sight. It is fundamentally about discerning God's will and aligning our lives with His purposes. This wisdom impacts our priorities, decisions, and actions, guiding us to live in a way that honors God and serves His kingdom. As Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." It is a wisdom that leads to a life well-lived in God's eyes, marked by integrity, discernment, and a focus on eternal values, rather than fleeting earthly gains.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Psalms 90:12, a prayer for divine wisdom in the face of human mortality, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. While Moses prayed for wisdom to navigate a fleeting existence, Christ Himself is the very embodiment of divine wisdom, the power and wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24) and in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3). In Him, we not only gain the understanding to "number our days" but also the power to live them purposefully. Jesus's life perfectly demonstrated how to redeem time, living every moment in perfect obedience to the Father, culminating in His sacrificial death and resurrection, which conquered death itself. Through faith in Christ, our numbered days are not merely a countdown to an inevitable end, but a journey transformed by the promise of eternal life (John 3:16). He teaches us to live with an eternal perspective, not by fear of death, but by the hope of resurrection and the call to invest our lives in what truly lasts (Matthew 6:19-21). Thus, applying our hearts to wisdom ultimately means applying our hearts to Christ, who is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30). He empowers us to "make the best use of the time, because the days are evil" (Ephesians 5:16), living lives that glorify God and bear lasting fruit for His kingdom, even within the confines of our finite earthly journey.