Psalm 39:1-5

Psalm 39In Hebrew texts 39:1-13 is numbered 39:2-14. 1For the director of music. For Jeduthun. A psalm of David. I said, “I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth while 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 end and 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. The Hebrew has Selah (a word of uncertain meaning) here and at the end of verse 11.