Psalms 39
1I said, “I will watch my waysand keep my tongue from sin;I will put a muzzle on my mouthwhile in the presence of the wicked.” 2So I remained utterly silent,not even saying anything good.But my anguish increased; 3my heart grew hot within me.While I meditated, the fire burned;then I spoke with my tongue: 4“Show me, Lord, my life’s endand the number of my days;let me know how fleeting my life is. 5You have made my days a mere handbreadth;the span of my years is as nothing before you.Everyone is but a breath,even those who seem secure. 6“Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom;in vain they rush about, heaping up wealthwithout knowing whose it will finally be. 7“But now, Lord, what do I look for?My hope is in you. 8Save me from all my transgressions;do not make me the scorn of fools. 9I was silent; I would not open my mouth,for you are the one who has done this. 10Remove your scourge from me;I am overcome by the blow of your hand. 11When you rebuke and discipline anyone for their sin,you consume their wealth like a moth—surely everyone is but a breath. 12“Hear my prayer, Lord,listen to my cry for help;do not be deaf to my weeping.I dwell with you as a foreigner,a stranger, as all my ancestors were. 13Look away from me, that I may enjoy life againbefore I depart and am no more.”
Study Context for Psalms 39
As you study Psalms 39, keep in mind the overarching themes of this old testament book: Worship, Lament, Praise. Observe how the specific events or teachings in this chapter contribute to the book's broader message.
WorshipLamentPraise
Observation: What does Psalms 39 reveal about the character and nature of God? What does it reveal about humanity?
Application: How does the truth presented in this chapter change how you should live, think, or pray today?
Study introductions and prompts are supplementary aids, not Scripture. They do not replace prayerful reading, the authority of Scripture, a faithful local church, or pastoral care.
Study Psalms 39 more deeply
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