1I said, I will watch my ways and my tongue; that I do not sin; I will bridle my mouth when in the presence of the wicked. 2So I was silent and held my peace, not even saying anything good; and my frustration grew worse. 3But the longer I thought about it, the hotter I burned; then I opened my mouth and spoke:

4LORD, let me to know my end, and the length of my days; that I may know how frail I am. 5Behold, You have made my days a mere handbreadth; and my entire lifespan is as nothing before You. Truly every man, in his best state, is altogether vanity. Selah. 6Surely every man walks like a vain shadow; and hustles and bustles in vain; he piles up riches, and does not know who shall receive and spend them. 7And now, LORD, for what do I wait? My hope is in You. 8Deliver me from all my transgressions; do not make me the object of ridicule by the foolish. 9I was silent; I and did not open my mouth, because it was You Who had done it. 10Remove Your scourge from me; I am crushed by the blows of Your hand. 11When You correct a man with Your rebukes for his iniquity, You make his health or what he holds dear melt away like a moth. Surely every man is a mere breath. Selah. 12Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear to my cry. Do not ignore my tears; for I am a stranger with You, a sojourner, as were all my fathers. 13O spare me, that I may regain my strength, before I die, and am no more.

A Psalm of David