Psalm 39 Wednesday Readings 2
I said, I will watch my steps, * lest I stumble with my tongue.
I will keep a muzzle on my mouth, * while the wicked man laughs at me.
I was muzzled to silence; * I refrained from speaking, * while my anguish mounted.
My heart burned within me; * at the thought, a fire flared up.
I spoke with my tongue: * Yahweh, teach me my destiny,
what is my span of days, * that I may know how frail I am.
Look, you measured my days by palm-lengths; * my lifetime is like nothing before you.
Too bad, everyone is but vapor, * everyone just a mask.
Too bad, like a phantom man goes about; * too bad, he gets excited for nothing.
He piles up wealth * not knowing who will gather it.
And now, Lord, what shall I cry? * My hope is in you.
From all my rebelliousness deliver me; * make me not the taunt of a fool.
I was muzzled, didn't open my mouth; * oh that you would act!
Take away from me your blow; * by the club in your hand I am knocked out.
With rebukes for his guilt you punish a man, * and you consume his body like a moth; * too bad, everyone is but vapor.
Hear my prayer, Yahweh; * El, listen to my cry; * don't be deaf to my tears.
For I am a guest in your house, * a visitor like all my ancestors.
Stop glaring at me that I may be glad, * before I depart and am no more.