Read: Psalm 33

Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love, that he may deliver their soul from death. (vv. 18-19)

In an interview titled “The Miracle in Front of You” that appeared in the January 2016 issue of The Sun magazine, pediatric oncologist Dr. Raymond Barfield says, “I think of each day as a gold coin that you are required to trade for something. You’ll never get that coin back, so whatever you trade it for had better be worth it.” While we can’t determine the number of days that have been allotted to us, we can make wise choices about how we use each of them. I’ve always known this, but getting a terminal diagnosis made this very real for me.

The psalmist’s hope comes from the knowledge that, as our earthly days wind down, we can trust that God will deliver us from death. Our last day on earth will be our first day in the eternal kingdom. The Lord will deliver us even from death.

What are you trading your day’s “coin” on? Complaints? Angry words? Frustration? Self-pity? Isolation? Fear? It is better to seek out serenity and joy, friendship and service, peace and patience. We all get only one day at a time. And who but God knows what tomorrow will bring? James 4:14 asks, “What is your life?” We are like “a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes,” with no guarantee of another day. How will you spend today? —Karen Bables

Prayer: My God, may I live each new day for you.