Verses 1-12, 23-28
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These verses together show that man, the earth, and even the heavens have their limit, but God is eternally the same.
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As humans, it's important to remember how frail we really are. Although we don't think of it often, our days are truly “consumed like smoke”, like “a shadow that lengthens”, and we “wither away like grass”.
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Even in your prime you are only passing away. Let this thought motivate you to use your time well, as your time is limited! Life is short!
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Verses 13-22
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Remember that we live only because of God's mercy (verse 13), and because of the favor He shows us in His own timing.
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As such, we are destitute without God's grace. It will be good for us to remember this, and to pray from a place of knowing our need for Him.
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As to remember God's grace, take pleasure and gratitude in all that you have. Appreciate even the stones and dust that God has given you in the place of your dwelling (verse 14).
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Dust we are, and to the dust we shall return. Though we are dust, God shows favor to us. So, let us not despise even the dust around us.
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In the end, all nations and future generations will praise and serve the Lord, even remembering the way that God answered our prayers (verses 17-18).
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So pray, knowing that it creates opportunity for God to answer in a way that will bring Him glory!
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