1 [For the choir director; for Jeduthun; a psalm by David.] I said, "I will watch my ways so that I do not sin with my tongue. I will bridle my mouth while wicked people are in my presence."

2 I remained totally speechless. I kept silent, although it did me no good. While I was deep in thought, my pain grew worse.

3 My heart burned like a fire flaring up within me. Then I spoke with my tongue:

4 "Teach me, O LORD, about the end of my life. Teach me about the number of days I have left so that I may know how temporary my life is.

5 Indeed, you have made the length of my days [only] a few inches. My life span is nothing compared to yours. Certainly, everyone alive is like a whisper in the wind. [Selah]

6 Each person who walks around is like a shadow. They are busy for no reason. They accumulate riches without knowing who will get them."

7 And now, Lord, what am I waiting for? My hope is in you!

8 Rescue me from all my rebellious acts. Do not disgrace me in front of godless fools.

9 I remained speechless. I did not open my mouth because you are the one who has done this.

10 Remove the sickness you laid upon me. My life is over because you struck me with your hand.

11 With stern warnings you discipline people for their crimes. Like a moth you eat away at what is dear to them. Certainly, everyone is like a whisper in the wind. [Selah]

12 Listen to my prayer, O LORD. Open your ear to my cry for help. Do not be deaf to my tears, for I am a foreign resident with you, a stranger like all my ancestors.

13 Look away from me so that I may smile again before I go away and am no more.