Every project has a start date and an end date.
It’s a unique endeavour—no two projects are exactly the same.
It requires resources—time, money, energy, relationships.
And at the end, there’s usually a reflection: What worked? What didn’t? What would I do differently next time?
When I think about life, I see the same principles at work.
We all started this journey on a specific date—our birthday—and one day, it will end. Between those two dates lies our one unique “project” called life.
Psalm 90:12 puts it beautifully:
“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”
There’s a subtle but powerful difference between counting and numbering.
Counting is about quantity—how many days you’ve had so far. Numbering is about order, priority, and purpose—where each day fits, what it means, and how it moves you toward the goal.
In project management, we don’t just track time; we assign value to it. Every task is intentional. Every resource is budgeted. Every milestone matters.
And just like a project, life has phases—whether we realize it or not.
1. Initiation – Defining the Why
In project management, the initiation phase sets the foundation: Why are we doing this? What’s the vision? Who are the key stakeholders?
In life, this is our beginning. We didn’t choose our start date, but at some point we must decide to live with purpose. As believers, we discover our “why” in God—understanding that our days are not random, but divinely designed.
2. Planning – Charting the Course
A project without a plan drifts. The planning phase outlines the objectives, milestones, timelines, and resource allocation.
In life, planning might mean setting spiritual goals, mapping out career paths, building healthy relationships, or stewarding finances wisely. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.”
3. Execution – Doing the Work
Execution is where plans turn into action. Tasks are completed, deliverables are created, progress is made.
In life, execution is our daily living—showing up, doing the work, loving people, honouring God, and stewarding opportunities. This is where numbering our days becomes practical: making sure our time matches our priorities.
4. Monitoring and Controlling – Staying on Track
Projects are monitored to ensure they stay aligned with goals. If something drifts off course, adjustments are made.
In life, this is self-examination and accountability. Are we still living according to God’s plan? Have distractions pulled us away from what matters? Are we investing our resources in the right places? This might mean seeking wise counsel, adjusting habits, or re-aligning with Scripture.
5. Closing – Wrapping Up Well
Every project has a closeout. Deliverables are handed over, results are celebrated, lessons learned are documented, and the chapter is closed.
In life, the closing phase reminds us that our time here is finite. One day, we’ll give an account to the One who entrusted us with our “project.” The goal? To finish well and hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Living with Intentionality
When God teaches us to number our days, He’s inviting us to live with intentionality—not drifting, but directing. Not just existing, but executing.
Living with this mindset doesn’t mean overloading our days with activity. It means treating every day like a precious resource, using it to do what matters most—in work, in relationships, and in faith.
So here’s the question I’m asking myself today:
If my life is a project, am I managing it well in every phase?
Every project God begins is precious — and so is every day He gives. This little one reminds me that life’s start date is a gift, and numbering our days means cherishing each moment with purpose.
Categories: My Devotionals, My lifestyle
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