1 I said, "I will guard my ways

so that I may not sin with my tongue;

I will guard my mouth with a muzzle

as long as the wicked are in my presence."  *

2 I was speechless and quiet;

I kept silent, even from speaking good,

and my pain intensified.  *

3 My heart grew hot within me;

as I mused, a fire burned.  *

I spoke with my tongue:

4 "Lord, make me aware of my end

and the number of my days

so that I will know how short-lived I am.  *

5 In fact, you have made my days just inches long,

and my life span is as nothing to you.

Yes, every human being stands as only a vapor.  *Selah

6 Yes, a person goes about like a mere shadow.

Indeed, they rush around in vain,

gathering possessions

without knowing who will get them.  *

7 "Now, Lord, what do I wait for?

My hope is in you.  *

8 Rescue me from all my transgressions;

do not make me the taunt of fools.  *

9 I am speechless; I do not open my mouth

because of what you have done.  *

10 Remove your torment from me.

Because of the force of your hand I am finished.  *

11 You discipline a person with punishment for iniquity,

consuming like a moth what is precious to him;  *

yes, every human being is only a vapor.  *Selah

12 "Hear my prayer, Lord,

and listen to my cry for help;

do not be silent at my tears.  *

For I am here with you as an alien,

a temporary resident like all my ancestors.  *

13 Turn your angry gaze from me

so that I may be cheered up

before I die and am gone."  *