Psalm 39
The Fleeting Nature of Life
For the choir director, for Jeduthun. A psalm of David.
1I said, “I will guard my ways
so that I may not sin with my tongue;
I will guard my mouth with a muzzle
as long as the wicked are in my presence.”39:1 Ps 34:13; Jms 3:5–12
2I was speechless and quiet;
I kept silent, even from speaking good,
3My heart grew hot within me;
I spoke with my tongue:
4“Lord, make me aware of my end
and the number of my days
5In fact, you have made my days just inches long,
and my life span is as nothing to you.
6Yes, a person goes about like a mere shadow.
Indeed, they rush around in vain,
gathering possessions
without knowing who will get them.39:6 Ps 49:10; Ec 2:18–19; Lk 12:20; 1Co 7:31
7“Now, Lord, what do I wait for?
My hope is in you.39:7 Ps 38:15
8Rescue me from all my transgressions;
9I am speechless; I do not open my mouth
because of what you have done.39:9 Ps 39:2
10Remove your torment from me.
11You discipline a person with punishment for iniquity,
consuming like a moth what is precious to him;39:11 Is 50:9
yes, every human being is only a vapor.39:11 Ps 39:5Selah
12“Hear my prayer, Lord,
and listen to my cry for help;
do not be silent at my tears.39:12 Ps 35:22
For I am here with you as an alien,
13Turn your angry gaze from me
so that I may be cheered up
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