Psalms 39:1

¶ To the chief Musician, [even] to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David. I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.

To the chief Musician {H5329}, even to Jeduthun {H3038}, A Psalm {H4210} of David {H1732}. I said {H559}{H8804)}, I will take heed {H8104}{H8799)} to my ways {H1870}, that I sin {H2398}{H8800)} not with my tongue {H3956}: I will keep {H8104}{H8799)} my mouth {H6310} with a bridle {H4269}, while the wicked {H7563} is before me.

For the leader. Set in the style of Y'dutun. A psalm of David: I said, "I will watch how I behave, so that I won't sin with my tongue; I will put a muzzle on my mouth whenever the wicked confront me."

I said, “I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are present.”

I said, I will take heed to my ways, That I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, While the wicked is before me.

Commentary

Psalm 39:1 opens a deeply introspective psalm by King David, revealing his personal resolve to exercise strict control over his speech, particularly in the presence of those who do not share his faith or values. This verse sets the stage for a meditation on the brevity of life and the human condition.

Context

This psalm, designated "To the chief Musician, even to Jeduthun," indicates its musical purpose and direction for worship, similar to other psalms of David. Jeduthun was one of the three Levitical choirmasters appointed by David (1 Chronicles 16:41). The psalm likely arises from a period of personal suffering or intense contemplation, where David felt the need to guard his words to avoid further trouble or to prevent giving occasion for the wicked to blaspheme God. It reflects a moment of spiritual discipline and a desire for integrity.

Key Themes

  • Self-Control and Discipline of the Tongue: The primary theme is David's commitment to bridle his mouth. He understands the immense power of words and the potential for sin that resides in unguarded speech. This reflects a deep spiritual discipline, recognizing that internal resolve must translate into external action in controlling one's speech.
  • Wisdom in Silence: David decides to remain silent ("keep my mouth with a bridle") when "the wicked is before me." This isn't out of fear, but a strategic choice to avoid saying anything that could be misunderstood, misused, or that might compromise his witness or God's name. It's an act of wisdom, not weakness, demonstrating a discernment about when to speak and when to refrain.
  • Avoiding Sin: The explicit purpose of this self-imposed restraint is "that I sin not with my tongue." David recognizes that careless, angry, or boastful words can lead to sin, damaging relationships, and dishonoring God. This commitment to guarding his mouth is a proactive step against temptation and a pursuit of personal righteousness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "take heed to my ways" comes from the Hebrew verb shamar, meaning "to guard," "to watch over," or "to preserve." It implies a careful, deliberate, and protective watchfulness over one's conduct, emphasizing intentionality. The imagery of "keep my mouth with a bridle" uses the Hebrew word machsom, which literally refers to a muzzle or bit used to control an animal. This vividly illustrates the intense self-restraint David intends to exert, highlighting the difficulty and necessity of controlling the tongue, which the Apostle James later describes as a small but powerful member, capable of much harm or good (James 3:2-5).

Practical Application

David's resolution in Psalm 39:1 offers timeless wisdom for believers today. In a world often characterized by impulsive and unfiltered communication, especially online, his commitment to setting a guard over his mouth is profoundly relevant. We are called to consider the impact of our words, particularly when navigating difficult conversations, facing opposition, or interacting with those who may mock faith. This verse encourages us to cultivate spiritual discipline, pray for discernment, and seek God's help to ensure our speech is always seasoned with grace and wisdom, reflecting Christ's character rather than worldly impulses.

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Cross-References

  • Proverbs 21:23 (30 votes)

    ¶ Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

  • Psalms 141:3 (24 votes)

    Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.

  • James 1:26 (20 votes)

    If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion [is] vain.

  • Psalms 119:9 (18 votes)

    ¶ BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed [thereto] according to thy word.

  • James 3:2 (16 votes)

    For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same [is] a perfect man, [and] able also to bridle the whole body.

  • James 3:8 (16 votes)

    But the tongue can no man tame; [it is] an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

  • Micah 7:5 (16 votes)

    Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.