Surely every man goes about like a phantom; surely he bustles in vain; he heaps up riches not knowing who will haul them away.
David confesses he was seized with extreme bitterness that forced him to break forth in complaint and vehemence he never intended. He wrestled with great effort to resist despair, and his prayers show the depth of his trouble of mind.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 39:1-13
Life is a passing pageant where nothing is sure except that nothing is sure. Men walk among shadows as if they were substance, fretting and fuming for gold and fame that will vanish like a dream when death wakes them into reality. All that noise and bustling in the market and exchange is made about fleeting vanities, and he who heaps up riches often leaves them for strangers to gather.
AI summary
When affliction presses, I must recall the solemn vows I made to God to walk circumspectly and guard my tongue. These are covenants never to be forgotten but always to be minded, especially when tempted to sin. To resolve steadfastly to take heed to my ways and to renew that resolution is the great concern of every soul.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 39:1-6