“How Fleeting My Life Is”

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.” So I remained utterly silent, not even saying anything good. But my anguish increased; my heart grew hot within me. While I meditated, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue:

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

“Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom; in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth

without knowing whose it will finally be.

“But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you. Save me from all my transgressions; do not make me the scorn of fools. I was silent; I would not open my mouth, for you are the one who has done this. Remove your scourge from me; I am overcome by the blow of your hand. When you rebuke and discipline anyone for their sin, you consume their wealth like a moth—

surely everyone is but a breath.

“Hear my prayer, Lord, listen to my cry for help; do not be deaf to my weeping. I dwell with you as a foreigner, a stranger, as all my ancestors were. Look away from me, that I may enjoy life again before I depart and am no more.”

Psalm 39:1-13

This psalm is a sober reminder of how short our lives are. And what about our “end.” What will we have accomplished? Have we done it all for God?

Know that while we may have lost sight of father, mother, spouse, and friends, we always know that God is walking beside us. Keep in mind who you have walking beside you.

As you travel life’s weary road, let Jesus life your heavy load.

Our Daily Bread – November 19, 2013