Psalm 39: Praying Through The Psalms

Psalm 39:1
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.”

O Lord, we know that the tongue is a powerful organ of the body, capable of blessing and cursing. James 3:5-6 discusses how the words we allow to roll off our tongue can have such a significant impact to those who know us.

Heavenly Father, the famous nursery rhyme, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me” is woefully incorrect. Words are brutal and can be worse, in my opinion, than sticks and stones. Help us to be cognizant of how we speak in front of others.

Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.

Gracious King, the word for “muzzle” (מַחְסוֹם, machsom) signifies restraint, implying intentional self-discipline. Give us the wisdom and insight to be careful with our choice of words when we are surrounded by unbelievers who reject your goodness and love. Allow us the unconditional grace to pray inwardly for those who reject you and hate you, so that your name will be glorified on the earth.

Psalm 39:2
So I remained utterly silent,
not even saying anything good.
But my anguish increased; While I meditated, the fire burned;
then I spoke with my tongue:

O Lord, the Hebrew word (חָרַשׁ, charash) suggests an intentional act of refraining from speech, often out of fear, wisdom, or respect. It reminds me of Proverbs 10:19, which says, “When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.” It’s wise, at times, to remain silent and meditate on your word.

Sovereign King, when I get angry or upset, give me the patience and self-control to remain silent. Otherwise, I may say something I regret. The fruit of the spirit includes being kind, patient, and loving. May we practice self-discipline to reflect your Holy Spirit in our lives.

Psalm 39:4
“Show me, Lord, my life’s end
and the number of my days;
let me know how fleeting my life is.

Prince of peace, our days are short here on the earth. I can remember like it was yesterday when my father turned 40 years old. Now, I myself will be turning the same exact age in less than a year. It’s a sobering reminder for all of us to not waste our life but to give you all the glory and praise every moment of our existence.

Psalm 90:12 states, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” This idea is widespread in Scripture and is wise advice we must follow. God, give us a revelation of where we are headed towards the end of life so we can be prepared for death. As Ecclesiastes 7:2 tells us: “It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart.”

Psalm 39:5
You 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.

This verse is interesting, O Lord, because it demonstrates how miniscule life is. The Hebrew word טְפָחִים, tephachim is a small unit of measurement (the width of four fingers), symbolizing life’s brevity. Not even the size of a hand.

As creatures, we are finite. We have breath that lasts only for a moment, but you have the breath of life that lasts forever. You span for eternity and yet we as creatures span less than a century.

I acknowledge the fleeting nature of life and focus on what truly matters: faith, relationships, and purpose. My faith need to be cultivated through your word, prayer, and writing. My relationships need to grow with my children, my wife, my parents, and other friends that exist in my life.

Psalm 39:6
“Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom;
in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth
without knowing whose it will finally be.

Father, the Hebrew צֵל, tzel represents something insubstantial or fleeting, emphasizing the impermanence of human pursuits. We are just merely shadows trying to grab for material wealth. Money, possessions, and our ego will soon disappear in an instant. We can’t take any of that with us to the grave.

O Lord, this example of a shadow helps convey life’s transience. Luke 12:20 talks about the rich fool who stores up wealth but ends up dying before enjoying it. It’s vital that we as humans recognize that money can’t buy happiness. In fact, the love of money is the root of all evil. When we worship money, it becomes a devilish god.

Psalm 39:7
“But now, Lord, what do I look for?
My hope is in you.

Amen Lord. My only hope is in you. For you are the one who has the keys to eternal life. For you, O God, is the only one worthy of all praise, glory, and honor.

Material wealth can’t speak back to us. Material wealth can’t provide the yearning we have for freedom and joy. When life is difficult, let God be your anchor.

When I feel downcast, I will write down all my anxieties. When I get distressed, I will pray for you to deliver me. For you hear a righteous prayer. You will be there for me when I am agonizing in pain. Thank you for being a good Father.