Psalm 39

1I said, "I will guard my steps lest I sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a bridle while the wicked is before me."

2I was silent with silence; I refrained even from good, and my sorrow was stirred.

3My heart grew hot within me; while I mused, the fire burned—then I spoke with my tongue.

4Yahweh, let me know my end and the measure of my days—what is it?—so I know how transient I am.

5Behold, you have made my days handbreadths, and my lifetime as nothing before you; surely all is vanity, all mankind standing. Selah.

6Surely every man walks as a mere shadow; surely they clamor in vain; he heaps up, yet does not know who shall gather them.

7Now, Lord, what do I hope for? In you is my hope.

8Rescue me from all my transgressions. Do not set me as a reproach to the fool.

9I was silent; I did not open my mouth, because you did it.

10Remove your plague from me; I am consumed by the blow of your hand.

11With rebukes for iniquity you discipline a man, and melt his beauty like a moth. Surely every man is vanity. Selah.

12Hear my prayer, Yahweh, and my cry; give ear to my tears—do not be silent, for I am a stranger with you, a sojourner like all my fathers.

13Turn from me, that I may gain strength before I depart and am no more.