Psalms 39

To the director; to Jeduthun; an ode to David.

39:1I said, I shall guard my ways for me to not sin with my tongue. I put a guard for my mouth while the sinner stood before me.

39:2I was mute and humbled and quiet of good words, and my pain was renewed.

39:3My heart heated within me; and in my meditation a fire would burn away; I spoke with my tongue.

39:4Make known to me, O lord, my limit! and the number of my days, what it is, that I should know what I lack.

39:5Behold, you established a palm for my days; and my essence is as nothing before you. Furthermore, for every man living all things are folly.

39:6However, a man travels with an image, except, he is disturbed in folly. He treasures up, but does not know why he shall gather them.

39:7And now, what of my endurance -- is it not the lord? Even my support is from you.

39:8From all my lawless deeds rescue me! You gave me for scorn to the fool.

39:9I was made mute, and I did not open my mouth, for you did it.

39:10Abstain your whips from me; from the strength of your hand I failed.

39:11With rebukes for lawlessness you corrected man; and his life wastes away as a spider's; besides -- every man is folly. PAUSE.

39:12Hear my prayer, O lord, and my supplication! Give ear to my tears! Be not silent! for I am a sojourner with you, and an immigrant, as all my fathers.

39:13Spare me! that I shall refresh before my going forth, and should no longer in any way exist.