by Time is a funny thing, isn’t it? Sometimes it feels like it’s zooming by like a race car, and other times it moves slower than a snail on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
But did you know the Bible has a lot to say about time? Yes, that’s right! From wise advice on how to use our time wisely to comforting words about God’s perfect timing, the Bible is packed with nuggets of wisdom about the ticking clock of life.
Do read on as we dive into top Bible verses about time!
Bible Verses About Time
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a season (a time appointed) for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven—”
Commentary: This verse reminds us that everything in life has its own time and season. It suggests a divine order and timing for all events and experiences. Understanding this helps us to trust in God’s timing, recognizing that there is a purpose for every phase of life. By accepting that there are appropriate times for different activities, we can find peace and patience in waiting for God’s perfect timing.
Psalm 90:12
“So teach us to number our days, that we may cultivate and bring to You a heart of wisdom.”
Commentary: This verse is a prayer for wisdom in understanding the brevity of life. By recognizing that our days are limited, we are encouraged to live wisely and make the most of the time we have. It calls us to live intentionally and purposefully, seeking God’s guidance and using our time to fulfill His will.
Ephesians 5:16
“Making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil.”
Commentary: This verse exhorts believers to use their time wisely and seize every opportunity for good. In a world where evil is prevalent, it is crucial to be diligent and intentional in our actions. By making the most of our time, we can contribute positively to the world and advance God’s kingdom.
James 4:14
“Yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen in your life tomorrow. What is secure in your life? You are merely a vapor [like a puff of smoke or a wisp of steam from a cooking pot] that is visible for a little while and then vanishes into thin air.”
Commentary: This verse highlights the uncertainty and fleeting nature of life. It serves as a reminder of our dependence on God and the importance of living each day with a sense of humility and reliance on His plans. By acknowledging the brevity of life, we are prompted to focus on what truly matters and live in a way that honors God.
2 Peter 3:8
“Nevertheless, do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like one day.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes God’s different perspective on time compared to humans. God’s timing is perfect and transcends our understanding. It reassures us that what may seem like a delay to us is part of God’s greater plan. Trusting in His timing allows us to have patience and faith in His promises.
Psalm 31:15
“My times are in Your hands; Rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from those who pursue and persecute me.”
Commentary: This verse expresses a deep trust in God’s sovereignty over our lives. Acknowledging that our times are in God’s hands means surrendering our plans and fears to Him. It is a plea for deliverance and protection, reflecting a reliance on God’s control over our circumstances.
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in.”
Commentary: This verse encourages perseverance in doing good, promising that we will see the fruits of our labor in due time. It reminds us that God’s timing is perfect and that our efforts will be rewarded if we remain steadfast. It is a call to maintain faith and continue serving God despite challenges.
Ecclesiastes 3:11
“He has made everything beautiful and appropriate in its time. He has also planted eternity [a sense of divine purpose] in the human heart [a mysterious longing which nothing under the sun can satisfy, except God]—yet man cannot find out (comprehend, grasp) what God has done (His overall plan) from the beginning to the end.”
Commentary: This verse highlights God’s perfect timing and the beauty He brings to all things. It acknowledges a divine purpose within our hearts, a longing for something greater that only God can fulfill. Even though we may not fully understand God’s plan, we can trust that He is working everything out for good.
Habakkuk 2:3
“For the vision is yet for the appointed [future] time. It hurries toward the goal [of fulfillment]; it will not fail. Even though it delays, wait [patiently] for it, because it will certainly come; it will not delay.”
Commentary: This verse reassures us of the certainty of God’s promises. Even if it seems like there is a delay, we are encouraged to wait patiently, knowing that God’s timing is perfect. It strengthens our faith in God’s faithfulness and His ability to fulfill His promises at the right time.
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] will gain new strength and renew their power; they will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles [rising toward the sun]; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not grow tired.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes the strength and renewal that comes from waiting on the Lord. It promises that those who trust in God will be empowered and sustained. By placing our hope in Him, we can find the endurance and strength needed to face life’s challenges.
Proverbs 16:9
“A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], But the Lord directs his steps and establishes them.”
Commentary: This verse highlights the balance between human planning and divine guidance. While we make plans, it is ultimately God who directs our steps and establishes our path. Trusting in God’s direction brings assurance that His plans for us are better than our own.
Psalm 62:8
“Trust [confidently] in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him. God is a refuge for us. Selah.”
Commentary: This verse encourages us to place our trust in God at all times and to pour out our hearts before Him. It reassures us that God is our refuge, a safe place where we can find comfort and protection. Trusting in God allows us to navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence and peace.
Romans 13:11
“Do this, knowing that this is a critical time. It is already the hour for you to awaken from your sleep [of spiritual complacency]; for our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed [in Christ].”
Commentary: This verse calls for spiritual awareness and urgency. It reminds believers of the importance of being spiritually awake and vigilant, recognizing that the time of Christ’s return is closer than ever. It is a call to live faithfully and purposefully, making the most of the time we have.
1 Peter 5:6
“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you [to a place of honor in His service] at the appropriate time.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes humility and submission to God’s authority. By humbling ourselves, we allow God to exalt us in His perfect timing. It encourages us to trust in God’s plan and timing, knowing that He will honor and lift us up when the time is right.
Isaiah 55:6
“Seek the Lord while He may be found; Call on Him [for salvation] while He is near.”
Commentary: This verse urges us to seek God and call on Him while we have the opportunity. It underscores the importance of turning to God without delay, recognizing that the time to seek Him is now. It is a reminder to prioritize our relationship with God and seek His presence continually.
2 Corinthians 6:2
“For He says, ‘At the acceptable time (the time of grace) I listened to you, And I helped you on the day of salvation.’ Behold, now is ‘the acceptable time,’ behold, now is ‘the day of salvation.'”
Commentary: This verse highlights the urgency of responding to God’s grace and salvation. It declares that the present moment is the acceptable time to turn to God and receive His help. It is a powerful call to action, urging us not to delay in seeking God’s salvation and grace.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Commentary: This verse offers a message of hope and reassurance. God has plans for our well-being and a hopeful future. Trusting in God’s plans gives us confidence and peace, knowing that He is in control and has good intentions for our lives. It encourages us to place our hope in God’s promises.
Psalm 37:7
“Be still before the Lord; wait patiently for Him and entrust yourself to Him; Do not fret (whine, agonize) because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes.”
Commentary: This verse calls for stillness and patience before God. It advises against fretting over the success of the wicked, encouraging us to trust in God’s justice and timing. By waiting patiently and entrusting ourselves to God, we can find peace and assurance that He will act according to His perfect plan.
Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is [eternally changeless, always] the same yesterday and today and forever.”
Commentary: This verse affirms the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ. His constancy provides a stable foundation for our faith, giving us confidence in His promises and character. In a world of constant change, knowing that Jesus remains the same brings comfort and assurance.
Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation].”
Commentary: This verse promises perfect peace to those who remain steadfast and focused on God. Trusting in God and taking refuge in Him leads to a peace that transcends circumstances. It encourages us to keep our minds and hearts committed to God, finding peace in His presence and promises.
Matthew 6:34
“So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Commentary: This verse advises against worrying about the future. It encourages us to focus on the present, trusting that God will take care of our needs. By living one day at a time and relying on God’s provision, we can avoid unnecessary anxiety and find peace in the present moment.
Psalm 46:10
“Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth.”
Commentary: This verse calls for stillness and acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. By being still and recognizing God as the supreme authority, we are reminded of His power and majesty. It encourages us to trust in God’s control over all things and to exalt Him in our lives.
John 9:4
“We must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes the urgency of doing God’s work while we have the opportunity. It calls for diligence and commitment to fulfilling God’s purposes, recognizing that there will come a time when we can no longer work. It encourages us to make the most of our time and serve God faithfully.
Proverbs 27:1
“Do not boast about tomorrow, For you do not know what a day may bring.”
Commentary: This verse advises against boasting about the future, acknowledging the uncertainty of life. It encourages humility and dependence on God, recognizing that we do not control what happens tomorrow. By living with an awareness of life’s unpredictability, we can focus on trusting God and living faithfully each day.
1 Chronicles 12:32
“Of the tribe of Issachar, men who understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do, 200 chiefs; and all their relatives were at their command.”
Commentary: This verse highlights the importance of understanding the times and acting wisely. The men of Issachar were commended for their discernment and knowledge of what to do. It encourages us to seek wisdom and understanding, being aware of the times we live in and responding appropriately to God’s guidance.
Psalm 39:4
“Lord, let me know my [life’s] end And [to appreciate] the extent of my days; Let me know how frail I am [how transient is my stay here].”
Commentary: This verse is a prayer for awareness of life’s brevity. By understanding the limited nature of our time on earth, we are prompted to live with greater purpose and humility. It encourages us to appreciate each day and to focus on what truly matters, aligning our lives with God’s eternal perspective.
Colossians 4:5
“Conduct yourself with wisdom in your interactions with outsiders (non-believers), make the most of each opportunity [treating it as something precious].”
Commentary: This verse advises believers to act wisely in their interactions with non-believers, making the most of every opportunity. It calls for thoughtful and intentional behavior, recognizing the value of each encounter. By treating each moment as precious, we can positively impact others and share God’s love effectively.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes total trust and reliance on God. By acknowledging Him in all our ways, we allow Him to guide and direct our paths. It encourages us to lean not on our own understanding but to trust in God’s wisdom and guidance, resulting in a smoother and more purposeful journey.
Psalm 90:4
“For a thousand years in Your sight Are like yesterday when it is past, Or as a watch in the night.”
Commentary: This verse highlights the vast difference between God’s perception of time and ours. It reminds us of God’s eternal nature and His timeless perspective. Recognizing this helps us to trust in God’s timing and to have faith in His eternal plan, even when we cannot fully understand it.
Revelation 1:8
“I am the Alpha and the Omega [the Beginning and the End],” says the Lord God, “who is [existing forever] and who was and who is to come, the Almighty [the Omnipotent, the Ruler of all].”
Commentary: This verse declares God’s eternal existence and His sovereign control over all time. As the Alpha and Omega, God is the beginning and the end, encompassing all of history and the future. It reassures us of God’s omnipotence and His ultimate authority over all things.
James 1:17
“Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of lights [the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens], in whom there is no variation [no rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [for He is perfect and never changes].”
Commentary: This verse highlights God’s unchanging nature and His generosity. Every good and perfect gift comes from God, who is constant and reliable. By recognizing God as the source of all blessings, we are reminded of His faithfulness and the stability He provides in our lives.
Job 14:5
“Since his days are determined, The number of his months is with You [in Your control], And You have made his limits so he cannot pass [his allotted time].”
Commentary: This verse acknowledges God’s sovereignty over the length of our lives. Our days are determined by God, and He has set the limits of our time on earth. Recognizing this helps us to live with a sense of purpose and dependence on God, trusting in His control over our lives.
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.”
Commentary: This verse highlights the guidance and direction provided by God’s word. As a lamp and light, it illuminates our path, helping us to navigate life’s journey. By relying on God’s word, we can find clarity and wisdom, ensuring that we stay on the right path according to His will.
Matthew 24:36
“But of that [exact] day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son [in His humanity], but the Father alone.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes the unknown timing of Christ’s return. It serves as a reminder to live in a state of readiness and anticipation, knowing that only the Father knows the exact time. It calls us to remain faithful and vigilant, always prepared for Christ’s return.
Psalm 23:6
“Surely goodness and mercy and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, And I shall dwell forever [throughout all my days] in the house and in the presence of the Lord.”
Commentary: This verse provides a comforting assurance of God’s goodness and mercy throughout our lives. It promises that God’s love and care will follow us all our days, culminating in an eternal dwelling in His presence. It reassures us of God’s constant presence and His commitment to our well-being.
Philippians 1:6
“I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [the time of His return].”
Commentary: This verse reassures us of God’s faithfulness in completing the good work He has started in us. It emphasizes God’s commitment to our spiritual growth and transformation. By trusting in God’s ongoing work in our lives, we can be confident that He will bring it to completion in His perfect timing.
What Does the Bible Say About Time
Time is a precious gift that God has given to each of us, and it is something that we should value and use wisely. The Bible teaches us that time is limited and that we should make the most of every moment we have.
It reminds us that life is short and that we should focus on what truly matters. We are encouraged to use our time to love others, to help those in need, and to grow in our relationship with God.
God wants us to understand that time on earth is temporary and that we should not waste it on things that do not have eternal value. He calls us to be mindful of how we spend our days and to make decisions that honor Him and reflect His love.
We are also reminded that there is a time for everything in life, a time to work, a time to rest, a time to laugh, and a time to cry. This teaches us the importance of balance and understanding the different seasons of life.
By using our time wisely, we can live a fulfilling life that brings joy to ourselves and others, and most importantly, brings glory to God. Let us cherish every moment, live with purpose, and seek to make a positive impact in the world around us.