A psalm which David gave to Jeduthun, the choir director, so that he could make a choral arrangement.
- I resolved what I should do – I promised myself, “I must watch how I behave and what I say so I do not do wrong. I will keep my mouth closed especially when those who do not follow the Lord are around.”
- As a consequence, I never spoke, not even to voice my gratitude for all the pleasing things around me. I felt constrained and a big pressure from within.
- My churning thoughts built up inside and, in the end, I had to let off steam:
- “Lord, help me to be mindful of how short my life will be. My existence is ephemeral, and my remaining days can easily be counted.
- Compared to your time, I will just come and go, lasting no longer than the blink of an eye or an exhaled breath.”
PAUSE
- We move through the world with no more impact than a shadow. We busy ourselves and we make money, but to what end?
- Where should I rest my hope, Boss? I put my hope in you – nothing else would make any sense.
- Save me from my instinct to oppose you so that those with no common sense cannot make fun of me.
- I cannot defend myself – there is nothing I can say for you are right to reprimand me.
- Please go easy on me as your challenges are sucking the life from me.
- When you correct us for our wrongdoings, our determination seeps away. Remember how short-lived we are.
PAUSE
- I appeal to you, Lord. Listen to my pleas for support. I am crying and pleading to you. My ancestors were nomads travelling through the land and I am the same, a guest in your country.
- Remove your heavy hand from me so that I can regain my happiness before my time comes and I am no more.
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