Stop Wishing Your Life Away
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12 (NIV)
“How long until winter is over?”
“I wish I didn’t have a dentist appointment tomorrow.”
“I can’t wait until my nursing recertification requirements are finished.”
I’ve caught myself thinking these thoughts more often than I’d like to admit. They sound harmless enough—just the normal complaints and countdowns of everyday life. But whenever I start mentally fast-forwarding through my days, I hear my mom’s familiar voice echoing in my heart, “Stop wishing your life away!”
It really is good advice.
I have a tendency to try and rush through anything uncomfortable, inconvenient, or difficult. I want the cold season to end, the appointment to be over, the obligation checked off the list. I look ahead instead of around. And in doing so, I often miss what God is doing right in front of me.
Winter, for example, may feel long and dreary—but it’s also a season of rest, quiet, and preparation. The earth is doing important work beneath the surface, even when nothing seems to be happening. Isn’t that often true in our lives? God may be strengthening our faith, deepening our patience, or teaching us dependence on Him during seasons we’d rather skip.
Even the things I dread—like appointments, deadlines, or requirements—can hold unexpected gifts. A dentist visit reminds me to be grateful for health care and the ability to receive it. Continuing education, though tiring, is a reminder that God is still equipping me to care for others. Conversations, lessons, and moments of encouragement can show up in places I least expect—if I’m paying attention.
When I rush ahead, I miss the small joys: a warm cup of coffee on a cold morning, a meaningful conversation, a moment of laughter, or the quiet reassurance of God’s presence. I miss the chance to see how God is faithful today, not just in the future I’m longing for.
God doesn’t promise us a life free of discomfort—but He does promise to be with us in every season. Each day is a gift, not something to be endured until we get to the “good part.” The truth is, this is the good part. Right here. Right now.
Maybe the challenge isn’t getting through life faster—but learning to live it more fully, trusting that God is at work even in the moments we wish away.
Lord, forgive us for the times we rush through our days instead of receiving them as gifts from You. Help us to be present, even when life feels hard or inconvenient. Open our eyes to see the ways You are working in each season—especially the ones we’d rather skip. Teach us patience, gratitude, and trust. Help us to number our days with wisdom. Thank You for guiding us today and every day. Amen.