- Home
- Bible
- Psalms
- Chapter 39
- Verse 39
Psalms 39:9
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
I was dumb, I opened not my mouth,.... This refers either to his former silence, before he broke it, Psa 39:1, or to what he after that came into again, when he had seen the folly of his impatience, the frailty of his life, the vanity of man, and all human affairs, and had been directed to place his hope and confidence in the Lord, Psa 39:5; or to the present frame of his mind, and his future conduct, he had resolved upon; and may be rendered, "I am dumb"; or "will be dumb, and will not open my mouth" (e); that is, not in a complaining and murmuring way against the Lord, but be still, and know or own that he is God; because thou didst it; not "because thou hast made me", as Austin reads the, words, and as the Arabic version renders them, "because thou hast created me"; though the consideration of God being a Creator lays his creatures under obligation as to serve him, so to be silent under his afflicting hand upon them; but the sense is, that the psalmist was determined to be patient and quiet under his affliction, because God was the author of it; for though he is not the author of the evil of sin, yet of the evil of affliction; see Amo 3:6; and it is a quieting consideration to a child of God under it, that it comes from God, who is a sovereign Being, and does what he pleases; and does all things well and wisely, in truth and faithfulness, and in mercy and loving kindness: this some refer to the rebellion of Absalom, and the cursing of Shimei, Sa2 12:11; or it may refer to the death of his child, Sa2 12:22; or rather to some sore affliction upon himself; since it follows, (e) "non aperiam", Pagninus, Montanus, Piscator, Gejerus; so Ainsworth.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
39:9-11 The psalmist links suffering with God’s discipline, assuming that it is punishment for his sin.
Psalms 39:9
I Will Watch My Ways
8Deliver me from all my transgressions; do not make me the reproach of fools. 9I have become mute; I do not open my mouth because of what You have done. 10Remove Your scourge from me; I am perishing by the force of Your hand.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Mute Christian Under the Smarting Rod - Part 1
By Thomas Brooks0AfflictionTrust in God's SovereigntyJOB 5:7PSA 34:19PSA 39:9LAM 3:27HAB 2:20Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of maintaining a silent and humble spirit during afflictions, drawing from Psalm 39:9, where David acknowledges God's sovereignty in his suffering. He encourages Christians to recognize God's hand in their trials and to respond with a calm and quiet heart, rather than with complaints or despair. Brooks outlines various forms of silence, distinguishing between unholy and holy silence, and stresses that true silence involves a deep understanding of God's justice and mercy. He reassures believers that afflictions serve a purpose in their spiritual growth and that God’s love remains constant even in hardship. Ultimately, Brooks calls for a patient waiting on the Lord, trusting in His goodness and timing.
Mute Christian Under the Smarting Rod -Part 2
By Thomas Brooks0Silence in SufferingTrusting God's SovereigntyPSA 39:9ISA 8:21MIC 6:9Thomas Brooks emphasizes the necessity for Christians to remain mute and silent during afflictions, drawing from Psalm 39:9 to illustrate that silence allows believers to hear the voice of God through their trials. He explains that being silent distinguishes them from the world, which often reacts with anger and frustration during hardships. Brooks encourages believers to emulate Christ's example of silence in suffering, asserting that a quiet spirit is of great worth in God's sight and essential for spiritual growth. He warns against the futility of murmuring and the dangers of sinning to escape troubles, urging Christians to trust in God's sovereign plan and to find peace in their afflictions.
Mute Christian Under the Smarting Rod -Part 3
By Thomas Brooks0SufferingTrust in God's LovePSA 39:9PSA 94:19ISA 43:2ROM 8:281CO 10:132CO 4:162TI 4:22HEB 12:10JAS 1:21PE 5:10Thomas Brooks emphasizes the necessity of remaining silent and trusting in God's love during afflictions, arguing that true understanding of God's love in suffering can transform our perspective. He addresses common objections to silence in suffering, asserting that afflictions can draw us closer to God, teach us valuable lessons, and ultimately lead to spiritual growth. Brooks encourages believers to recognize that their trials are tailored to their strength and serve a divine purpose, urging them to focus on the eternal glory that awaits them rather than their temporary pain. He concludes that patience in suffering can lead to a deeper relationship with Christ and greater spiritual rewards.
You Are the One Who Has Done This!
By Thomas Brooks0Trust in God's SovereigntySufferingPSA 39:9PSA 46:10ISA 41:10LAM 3:22AMO 3:6ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 4:6JAS 1:21PE 5:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of silence and humility in the face of affliction, as exemplified by David in Psalm 39:9. He highlights that true believers recognize God's sovereignty over their trials and choose to remain silent, acknowledging Him as the ultimate author of their circumstances. Brooks explains that seeing God's hand in our suffering leads to peace and calmness, while failing to do so can result in anger and frustration. The sermon encourages Christians to trust in God's love and purpose, even during difficult times, and to find solace in His presence.
Subjection Under God's Chastisement
By A.W. Pink0Submission to GodGod's ChastisementLEV 10:12SA 16:10NEH 9:32JOB 11:12PSA 39:9PSA 119:71PSA 119:75PSA 119:116ISA 53:6JHN 18:11A.W. Pink emphasizes the necessity of being in subjection to God's chastisement, acknowledging our inherent rebellious nature inherited from our first parents. He explains that true subjection involves recognizing God's sovereign right, renouncing self-will, and acknowledging His righteousness and love in all circumstances. Pink illustrates that submission is not merely passive but requires active obedience to God's will, which leads to true happiness and fulfillment. He encourages believers to see God's discipline as a means to bring them closer to Him and to trust in His goodness and wisdom. Ultimately, Pink calls for a heartfelt acceptance of God's authority as our loving Father.
The Mischief of Sin
By Thomas Watson0EXO 16:31JOB 15:16PSA 39:9PRO 8:13JER 23:24ROM 2:5EPH 2:4COL 3:51TI 1:131JN 1:7REV 16:9REV 21:27Thomas Watson preaches about the mischief of sin, highlighting God's mercy in saving Christians from persisting in sin and the consequences of unrepentant sinners storing up wrath for themselves. He emphasizes the destructive nature of sin, its link to punishment, and the need to avoid pride, covetousness, and immorality. Watson also discusses the cleansing power of Christ's blood, the importance of repentance, and the eternal consequences of sin. He urges believers to use the Word of God, prayer, and mortification to overcome sin and emphasizes the need to fear the consequences of sin and avoid secret sins that lead to destruction.
Letter 40
By James Bourne0PSA 39:9James Bourne reflects on the changes and conflicts he faces, finding peace in the midst of difficulties by trusting that God has a purpose for all that happens to him. He shares his determination to cry out to the Lord for help in desperate situations, finding comfort in knowing that God understands our weaknesses and is always ready to help. Bourne describes the wondrous works of God in his life, including patience, resignation, meekness, contrition, and a deep acceptance of God's discipline, leading to a joyful hope in salvation despite surrounding difficulties.
Mute Christian Under the Smarting Rod -Part 4
By Thomas Brooks0God's Unchanging LoveFaith in TrialsPSA 30:6PSA 39:9Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of remaining silent and trusting in God during times of affliction and perceived abandonment. He reassures believers that even in their darkest moments, they are not wholly forsaken, as God's love and presence remain constant, albeit sometimes hidden. Brooks draws on biblical examples of saints who endured similar trials, encouraging Christians to find solace in God's promises and the eventual return of His favor. He reminds them that their suffering is temporary and serves a greater purpose in their spiritual growth and reliance on God.
Strength for the Weary Heart
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 39:9Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about finding strength and courage in the Lord, emphasizing the importance of turning to God in times of weariness, distraction, or numbness. She encourages seeking gladness, refreshment, moderation, and recollection from the Heavenly Father, who is always ready to pour His grace into open hearts. By trusting in God and allowing His Spirit to control and renew our innermost feelings, we can find deepened, sweetened, and refilled springs of life within us.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
I was dumb, I opened not my mouth,.... This refers either to his former silence, before he broke it, Psa 39:1, or to what he after that came into again, when he had seen the folly of his impatience, the frailty of his life, the vanity of man, and all human affairs, and had been directed to place his hope and confidence in the Lord, Psa 39:5; or to the present frame of his mind, and his future conduct, he had resolved upon; and may be rendered, "I am dumb"; or "will be dumb, and will not open my mouth" (e); that is, not in a complaining and murmuring way against the Lord, but be still, and know or own that he is God; because thou didst it; not "because thou hast made me", as Austin reads the, words, and as the Arabic version renders them, "because thou hast created me"; though the consideration of God being a Creator lays his creatures under obligation as to serve him, so to be silent under his afflicting hand upon them; but the sense is, that the psalmist was determined to be patient and quiet under his affliction, because God was the author of it; for though he is not the author of the evil of sin, yet of the evil of affliction; see Amo 3:6; and it is a quieting consideration to a child of God under it, that it comes from God, who is a sovereign Being, and does what he pleases; and does all things well and wisely, in truth and faithfulness, and in mercy and loving kindness: this some refer to the rebellion of Absalom, and the cursing of Shimei, Sa2 12:11; or it may refer to the death of his child, Sa2 12:22; or rather to some sore affliction upon himself; since it follows, (e) "non aperiam", Pagninus, Montanus, Piscator, Gejerus; so Ainsworth.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
39:9-11 The psalmist links suffering with God’s discipline, assuming that it is punishment for his sin.