In this song of praise, David reminds us that our only hope is in the Lord. Here’s the psalm in its entirety: “I said to myself, “I will watch what I do and not sin in what I say. I will curb my tongue when the ungodly are around me.” But as I stood there in silence – not even speaking of good things – the turmoil within me grew to the bursting point. My thoughts grew hot within me and began to burn, igniting a fire of words: “Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered, and that my life is fleeing away. My life is no longer than the width of my hand. An entire lifetime is just a moment to you; human existence is but a breath.” (Wow…my father, George Bridges, used to speak on this all of the time, and he would give examples of how the years would pass by with a blow of his breath. I miss you, George Bridges!)
We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. (Wow! Lord, help us to slow down and simply enjoy your greatness.) We heap up wealth for someone else to spend.
And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you. Rescue me from my rebellion, for even fools mock me when I rebel. I am silent before you; I won’t say a word. For my punishment is from you. Please, don’t punish me anymore! I am exhausted by the blows from your hand. When you discipline people for their sins, their lives can be crushed like the life of a moth. Human existence is as frail as breath.
Hear my prayer, O Lord! Listen to my cries for help! Don’t ignore my tears. For I am your guest – a traveler passing through, as my ancestors were before me. Spare me so I can smile again before I am gone and exist no more.” (Psalm 39)
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Help us get ourselves together so we can avoid the blows of your hand. Help us be mindful of how short our lives are, and to slow down and enjoy the many blessings you provide to us. And, Lord, help us to KNOW our only hope is in you! Lord, we love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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