You, indeed, have made my days as handbreadths, and my lifetime as nothing before You. Truly each man at his best exists as but a breath. Selah You, indeed, have made my days as handbreadthsThe phrase "You, indeed" emphasizes the sovereignty and intentionality of God in the psalmist's life. The Hebrew root here is "אַתָּה" (atah), which is a direct address to God, acknowledging His active role in the creation and determination of human life. This reflects a deep trust in God's wisdom and purpose, recognizing that life is not a random occurrence but a divinely orchestrated journey. The term "have made" comes from the Hebrew verb "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to give or appoint. This suggests that our lifespan is not merely a natural phenomenon but a gift from God, appointed by Him with precision and care. It implies a sense of stewardship over the time we are given, urging us to use it wisely and purposefully. The word "my days" refers to the entirety of one's life. In Hebrew, "יָמַי" (yamai) is used, which can denote both the literal days and the broader concept of one's lifetime. This highlights the finite nature of human existence, urging the reader to reflect on the brevity and preciousness of life. The phrase "as handbreadths" uses the Hebrew "טֶפַח" (tephach), a unit of measurement equivalent to the width of four fingers. This imagery conveys the shortness and fragility of life, akin to the brief span of a handbreadth. In ancient times, a handbreadth was a common measure, easily understood by all, symbolizing the limited and fleeting nature of human life in contrast to God's eternal nature. and my lifetime is as nothing before You
The word "lifetime" translates from the Hebrew "חֶלְדִּי" (cheldi), which encompasses the entire duration of one's earthly existence. This term invites reflection on the temporal nature of life, encouraging believers to focus on eternal values rather than transient worldly pursuits. The phrase "is as nothing" uses the Hebrew "כְּאַיִן" (ke'ayin), meaning as if it were non-existent or insignificant. This stark comparison underscores the vast difference between God's eternal nature and human temporality. It serves as a humbling reminder of our dependence on God and the importance of aligning our lives with His eternal purposes. The words "before You" highlight the presence and omniscience of God. In Hebrew, "לְנֶגֶדֶךָ" (lenegedekha) suggests being in the sight or presence of God. This phrase reassures believers that their lives, though brief, are lived out before a loving and attentive Creator who values each moment and action. Truly each man at his best exists as but a breath
The word "Truly" is translated from the Hebrew "אַךְ" (akh), which serves as an emphatic assertion, reinforcing the truth of the statement that follows. It calls the reader to pay close attention to the profound reality being expressed. The phrase "each man at his best" uses the Hebrew "כָּל־אָדָם נִצָּב" (kol-adam nitzav), indicating every person, regardless of status or achievement. This phrase levels the playing field, reminding us that no matter our accomplishments, we are all subject to the same temporal limitations. The word "exists" is derived from the Hebrew "עֹמֵד" (omed), meaning to stand or remain. This suggests a temporary state, reinforcing the idea that human life, even at its peak, is transient and fleeting. The phrase "as but a breath" uses the Hebrew "כַּחֲלוֹם" (kachalom), which literally means like a breath or vapor. This imagery is powerful, evoking the ephemeral nature of a breath that appears momentarily and then vanishes. It serves as a poignant reminder of the brevity of life and the importance of living with an eternal perspective, focusing on what truly matters in the sight of God. Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe author of Psalm 39, David is expressing his reflections on the brevity and frailty of human life in this psalm. 2. GodThe psalm is directed towards God, acknowledging His sovereignty over human life and time. 3. SelahA term used in the Psalms, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or musical interlude, emphasizing the importance of the preceding statement. Teaching Points The Brevity of LifeRecognize that our time on earth is limited and should be used wisely. Reflect on how the shortness of life should influence our priorities and decisions. God's Sovereignty Over TimeAcknowledge that God is in control of our lifespan and trust in His timing. Understand that our lives are part of a larger divine plan. Human Frailty and Dependence on GodAccept that human strength and achievements are temporary and rely on God for true significance. Cultivate humility by recognizing our limitations and God's greatness. Living with Eternal PerspectiveFocus on what has eternal value, such as faith, love, and service to God and others. Encourage a lifestyle that reflects eternal priorities rather than temporary gains. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the imagery of "handbreadths" and "breath" in Psalm 39:5 help us understand the nature of human life? 2. In what ways can acknowledging the brevity of life influence our daily decisions and long-term goals? 3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty over our lifespan provide comfort and assurance in times of uncertainty? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our lives reflect an eternal perspective rather than a focus on temporary achievements? 5. How do other scriptures, such as James 4:14 and Ecclesiastes 1:2, reinforce the message of Psalm 39:5, and how can these insights be applied in our personal walk with God? Connections to Other Scriptures James 4:14This verse echoes the sentiment of Psalm 39:5 by comparing life to a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes, emphasizing the transient nature of human existence. Job 7:7Job also reflects on the fleeting nature of life, similar to David's expression in Psalm 39:5, highlighting the universal human experience of life's brevity. Ecclesiastes 1:2Solomon's declaration that "everything is meaningless" resonates with the idea that human life is but a breath, underscoring the futility of life without God. People David, Jeduthun, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Age, Altogether, Behold, Best, Breath, Estate, Handbreadth, Hand-breadth, Handbreadths, Hand-breadths, Hand's, Hast, Lifetime, Life-time, Longer, Man's, Measure, Mere, Nothing, Placed, Selah, Sight, Span, Stands, State, Surely, Truly, Vanity, VerilyDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 39:5 5618 measures, linear
8666 praise, manner and methods Psalm 39:4-5 9021 death, natural Psalm 39:4-6 4016 life, human Psalm 39:4-8 6203 mortality Library The Bitterness and Blessedness of the Brevity of Life
'Surely every man walketh in a vain shew.... 12. I am a stranger with Thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were.' --PSALM xxxix. 6, 12. These two sayings are two different ways of putting the same thing. There is a common thought underlying both, but the associations with which that common thought is connected in these two verses are distinctly different. The one is bitter and sad--a gloomy half truth. The other, out of the very same fact, draws blessedness and hope. The one may come from no …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureSong of the Sojourner.
"I am a stranger with thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were."--Psalm 39:12. "Ich bin ein Gast auf Erden." [60]Paul Gerhardt. transl., Jane Borthwick, 1858 A Pilgrim and a stranger, I journey here below; Far distant is my country The home to which I go. Here I must toil and travel, Oft weary and opprest, But there my God shall lead me To everlasting rest. I've met with storm and danger, Even from my early years, With enemies and conflicts, With fightings and with fears. There's nothing here …
Jane Borthwick—Hymns from the Land of Luther Epiphanius of Pavia.
ABOUT the same time that Cæsarius was thus labouring in France, Epiphanius, Bishop of Pavia, was labouring in a like spirit in Italy. He also was a blessing for his land, convulsed by the disturbances of war, and deluged by one barbarous tribe after another. Amidst the strife of hostile tribes, he gained equal confidence and equal respect from the leaders of the adverse parties, and shed benefits alike on friend and foe. When the wild hosts of Odoacer were destroying and plundering Pavia, in …
Augustus Neander—Light in the Dark Places Since These Things are So, Suffer Me Awhile...
36. Since these things are so, suffer me awhile, holy brother, (for the Lord giveth me through thee great boldness,) to address these same our sons and brethren whom I know with what love thou together with us dost travail in birth withal, until the Apostolic discipline be formed in them. O servants of God, soldiers of Christ, is it thus ye dissemble the plottings of our most crafty foe, who fearing your good fame, that so goodly odor of Christ, lest good souls should say, "We will run after the …
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks. How Admirably Ps. ...
How admirably Ps. xxxix. [xxxviii.] takes the place of an introduction. Incited thereto by this psalm the saint determines to write on duties. He does this with more reason even than Cicero, who wrote on this subject to his son. How, further, this is so. 23. Not without thought did I make use of the beginning of this psalm, in writing to you, my children. For this psalm which the Prophet David gave to Jeduthun to sing, [57] I urge you to regard, being delighted myself with its depth of meaning and …
St. Ambrose—Works and Letters of St. Ambrose Period ii. The Church from the Permanent Division of the Empire Until the Collapse of the Western Empire and the First Schism Between the East and the West, or Until About A. D. 500
In the second period of the history of the Church under the Christian Empire, the Church, although existing in two divisions of the Empire and experiencing very different political fortunes, may still be regarded as forming a whole. The theological controversies distracting the Church, although different in the two halves of the Graeco-Roman world, were felt to some extent in both divisions of the Empire and not merely in the one in which they were principally fought out; and in the condemnation …
Joseph Cullen Ayer Jr., Ph.D.—A Source Book for Ancient Church History Letter xxvi. (Circa A. D. 1127) to the Same
To the Same He excuses the brevity of his letter on the ground that Lent is a time of silence; and also that on account of his profession and his ignorance he does not dare to assume the function of teaching. 1. You will, perhaps, be angry, or, to speak more gently, will wonder that in place of a longer letter which you had hoped for from me you receive this brief note. But remember what says the wise man, that there is a time for all things under the heaven; both a time to speak and a time to keep …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux Works by the Same Author.
Crown 8vo, cloth, price 7s. 6d. each. THE PSALMS. VOL. I.--PSALMS I.-XXXVIII. " II.--PSALMS XXXIX.-LXXXIX. " III.--PSALMS XC-CL. IN THE "EXPOSITOR'S BIBLE." "The work of a brilliant and effective teacher. He writes with real power and insight."--Saturday Review. "Dr. Maclaren has evidently mastered his subject with the aid of the best authorities, and has put the results of his studies before his readers in a most attractive form, and if we add that this commentary really helps to the better …
Alexander Maclaren—The Life of David How the Silent and the Talkative are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 15.) Differently to be admonished are the over-silent, and those who spend time in much speaking. For it ought to be insinuated to the over-silent that while they shun some vices unadvisedly, they are, without its being perceived, implicated in worse. For often from bridling the tongue overmuch they suffer from more grievous loquacity in the heart; so that thoughts seethe the more in the mind from being straitened by the violent guard of indiscreet silence. And for the most part they …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great Epistle v. To Theoctista, Sister of the Emperor.
To Theoctista, Sister of the Emperor. Gregory to Theoctista, &c. With how great devotion my mind prostrates itself before your Venerableness I cannot fully express in words; nor yet do I labour to give utterance to it, since, even though I were silent, you read in your heart your own sense of my devotion. I wonder, however, that you withdrew your countenance, till of late bestowed on me, from this my recent engagement in the pastoral office; wherein, under colour of episcopacy, I have been brought …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great Third Sunday after Easter
Text: First Peter 2, 11-20. 11 Beloved, I beseech you as sojourners and pilgrims, to abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12 having your behavior seemly among the Gentiles; that, wherein they speak against you as evil-doers, they may by your good works, which they behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. 13 Be subject to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether to the king, as supreme; 14 or unto governors, as sent by him for vengeance on evil-doers and for praise …
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. II "For what the Law could not Do, in that it was Weak through the Flesh, God Sending his Own Son in the Likeness of Sinful Flesh,
Rom. viii. 3.--"For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin condemned sin in the flesh." For what purpose do we meet thus together? I would we knew it,--then it might be to some better purpose. In all other things we are rational, and do nothing of moment without some end and purpose. But, alas! in this matter of greatest moment, our going about divine ordinances, we have scarce any distinct or deliberate …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning The Character of Its Teachings Evidences the Divine Authorship of the Bible
Take its teachings about God Himself. What does the Bible teach us about God? It declares that He is Eternal: "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou are God" (Ps. 90:2). It reveals the fact that He is Infinite: "But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee" (I Kings 8:27). Vast as we know the universe to be, it has its bounds; but we must go beyond …
Arthur W. Pink—The Divine Inspiration of the Bible Lii. Concerning Hypocrisy, Worldly Anxiety, Watchfulness, and his Approaching Passion.
(Galilee.) ^C Luke XII. 1-59. ^c 1 In the meantime [that is, while these things were occurring in the Pharisee's house], when the many thousands of the multitude were gathered together, insomuch that they trod one upon another [in their eagerness to get near enough to Jesus to see and hear] , he began to say unto his disciples first of all [that is, as the first or most appropriate lesson], Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. [This admonition is the key to the understanding …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness, Suffering
Text: 1 Peter 5, 5-11. 5 Likewise, ye younger, be subject unto the elder. Yea, all of you gird yourselves with humility, to serve one another: for God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; 7 casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 whom withstand stedfast …
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III How those are to be Admonished who Decline the Office of Preaching Out of Too Great Humility, and those who Seize on it with Precipitate Haste.
(Admonition 26.) Differently to be admonished are those who, though able to preach worthily, are afraid by reason of excessive humility, and those whom imperfection or age forbids to preach, and yet precipitancy impells. For those who, though able to preach with profit, still shrink back through excessive humility are to be admonished to gather from consideration of a lesser matter how faulty they are in a greater one. For, if they were to hide from their indigent neighbours money which they possessed …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great "And we all do Fade as a Leaf, and Our Iniquities, Like the Wind, have Taken us Away. "
Isaiah lxiv. 6.--"And we all do fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." Here they join the punishment with the deserving cause, their uncleanness and their iniquities, and so take it upon them, and subscribe to the righteousness of God's dealing. We would say this much in general--First, Nobody needeth to quarrel God for his dealing. He will always be justified when he is judged. If the Lord deal more sharply with you than with others, you may judge there is a difference …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning A Defence of the Doctrine of Justification, by Faith in Jesus Christ;
SHEWING, TRUE GOSPEL-HOLINESS FLOWS FROM THENCE; OR, MR. FOWLER'S PRETENDED DESIGN OF CHRISTIANITY, PROVED TO BE NOTHING MORE THAN TO TRAMPLE UNDER FOOT THE BLOOD OF THE SON OF GOD; AND THE IDOLIZING OF MAN'S OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS AS ALSO, HOW WHILE HE PRETENDS TO BE A MINISTER OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND, HE OVERTHROWETH THE WHOLESOME DOCTRINE CONTAINED IN THE 10TH, 11TH, AND 13TH, OF THE THIRTY-NINE ARTICLES OF THE SAME, AND THAT HE FALLETH IN WITH THE QUAKER AND ROMANIST, AGAINST THEM. BY JOHN BUNYAN …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Psalm 39:5 NIVPsalm 39:5 NLTPsalm 39:5 ESVPsalm 39:5 NASBPsalm 39:5 KJV
Psalm 39:5 Commentaries
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