Musings from Psalm 39

Psalm 39 is an interesting psalm. It is a look into the thoughts of King David-- likely near the end of his life.

The psalm starts off with David thinking about his thinking. He is obviously really eaten up with what he is thinking about. Then, he offers up a prayer to God.

Basically, David realizes two things about himself. First, David realizes his life is short (vs. 4-6). Second, David realizes that his life has been full of sin, and thus brought upon him the reproof and chastening of God (vs. 8-11). It is no wonder that David was troubled in the first few verses of the psalm.

With these thoughts heavy on his heart, David finds solace in one thing-- his God. Verse 7 seems to be the keystone of this psalm. When the sad state of life stares you in the face you must place your hope in God.

As you now consider your own life, what do you look to? Do you look to yourself? What good is that. Life is short. What have you ultimately been able to accomplish with your life? Have you not daily struggled with unrighteousness that only leads to the consequences of sin in your life? What real good have you been able to accomplish on your own? No, looking to yourself has not gotten you very far. The only hope you have is in the Lord.