Psalm 39

C.M.

1I said, “I will watch all my ways, and keep my tongue from sin;
I’ll put a muzzle on my mouth while with such wicked men.”

2But while I silent was and still, not even speaking good,
The anguish in my soul increased, though try as best I could.

3My heart grew hotter within me, as, thinking one by one
of all my troubles, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue:

4“Show me, O Lord, my life’s short end, the number of my days;
Make me to know how fast it flies—how fleeting are my days.

5“For You have made life but a breath; my days are a short span;
My years are nothing before You, a mere breath is each man.Selah

6“So, phantomlike we go about, we scurry all in vain;
We heap up wealth, but don’t know who will end up with our gain.

7“But now, Lord, what do I look for? My only hope’s in You;
8Save me from my transgressions, and the scorn of fools subdue.

9“I’m silent, and keep my mouth closed, for all this You have done.
10Remove Your scourge from me, for by Your hand I’m overcome.

11“For You rebuke and discipline all men for all their sin;
And You consume our wealth like moths—we are but breath and wind.Selah

12“O hear my prayer and listen, Lord, to You for help I cry;
Don’t be deaf to my tears, for like a foreigner am I.

“I’m a sojourner with You as my fathers were before.
13Turn Your gaze so I may rejoice before I am no more.”