Psalm 39: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 39 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist commits to watch his ways and guard his speech, deciding not to sin with his tongue in the presence of the wicked (vv. 1-2). While he holds his peace, his heart burns within him, leading him to speak to Yahweh about his mortality (vv. 3-4). He meditates on the shortness of his life, recognizing that his days are measured and fleeting, as every person is 'but a breath' (vv. 5-6). The psalmist expresses his hope in Yahweh, asking for deliverance from his sins (vv. 7-8). He acknowledges that his silence is due to Yahweh’s actions and seeks relief from divine discipline (vv. 9-11). Finally, he pleads for Yahweh to hear his prayer and spare him so he can regain his strength before he departs from life (vv. 12-13).

Key verse

“Now, Lord, what do I wait for? My hope is in you.”
Psalms 39:7 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 39:1–2 Commitment to Guard Speech
Psalm 39:3–4 Meditation on Mortality
Psalm 39:5–6 Life's Fleeting Nature
Psalm 39:7–8 Hope in God Amid Trials
Psalm 39:9–11 Recognition of Divine Discipline
Psalm 39:12–13 Plea for God's Attention

Discussion questions

In v1, what does David commit to do regarding his 'tongue'?
What does David mean by saying in v5 that 'every man stands as a breath'?
In v7, why does David express that 'my hope is in you' when he questions his waiting?
In v10, why does David ask God to 'remove your scourge away from me'?
When has your 'heart' burned within you during a time of silence?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 39: Psalm 90, Psalm 119, Job 14.

Before next time: read Psalm 40.