Psalm 39 Meaning Explained
A meditation on mortality held in silence, then unleashed. The psalmist resolves to muzzle his speech, but the fire within forces words out. He asks for the measure of his days, recognizing life as a mere breath, a fleeting shadow. The plea is not for long life, but for deliverance from transgression's power and for a reprieve from God's discipline before he is gone and 'you look for me, but I will be no more.'
A clear explanation of Psalm 39, its meaning, context, and message for believers today
Psalms Chapter 39 | KJV
1. To the chief Musician, even to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David. I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.
2. I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from good; and my sorrow was stirred.
3. My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue,
4. LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am.
5. Behold, thou hast made my days as an handbreadth; and mine age is as nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Selah.
6. Surely every man walketh in a vain shew: surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them.
7. And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.
8. Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish.
9. I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because thou didst it.
10. Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by the blow of thine hand.
11. When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: surely every man is vanity. Selah.
12. Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears: for I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were.
13. O spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more.
Historical Context
Psalm 39, attributed to David, is a meditation on life’s transience and human frailty, coupled with a plea for God’s help.
Phrase by Phrase
- Lord, make me to know my end, and the measure of my days: Awareness of life’s brevity and human mortality.
- I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because thou didst it: Patience and submission to God’s will.
- O Lord, make me to know my end: Seek wisdom and understanding from God about life and death.
Application for Today
Believers can reflect on life’s brevity, practice patience, self-control, and trust God’s timing and guidance.
FAQs
Q: What is the main theme of Psalm 39?
A: Life’s brevity, patience, and trust in God.
Q: Why reflect on life’s end?
A: To live wisely and humbly before God.
Q: What attitude is encouraged?
A: Patience, self-control, and submission to God.
Q: How can this psalm apply today?
A: Reflect on life’s brevity and trust God’s guidance in every decision.
Conclusion
Psalm 39 teaches awareness of life’s brevity, patience, and trusting God’s wisdom and timing.
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