Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 39:1

PSALM 39

Psa 39:1-13. To Jeduthun (1Ch 16:41, 42), one of the chief singers. His name mentioned, perhaps, as a special honor. Under depressing views of his frailty and the prosperity of the wicked, the Psalmist, tempted to murmur, checks the expression of his feelings, till, led to regard his case aright, he prays for a proper view of his condition and for the divine compassion.

1. I said--or, "resolved."

will take heed--watch.

ways--conduct, of which the use of the tongue is a part (Jas 1:26).

bridle--literally, "muzzle for my mouth" (compare De 25:4).

while ... before me--in beholding their prosperity (Psa 37:10, 36).