\NormalFont\ShortTitle{PSALMS}

{\MT Psalms



\par }\PsalmChap{1}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Happy are those who don't follow the advice of the wicked. They refuse to adopt the ways of sinful people, and they don't make fun of others.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Instead they love to do what the law of the Lord says, and they think about it day and night.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They're like trees growing by flowing rivers, producing fruit every season. Their leaves never wither, and they are successful in all they do.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But it's not like that for the wicked! They are like chaff, blown away by the wind.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For this reason the wicked will not survive the judgment—sinners have no place among those who live right.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 1:5 }{\FT{“Those who live right”: literally, “the righteous.” However, this term is little used in general non-church language and so in this translation it is replaced with phrases such as “those who live right” or “those who do good/right” etc. This is more than being correct, it means living a life that is morally right.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}For the Lord watches over those who follow the right way, but the way of the wicked leads to death.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{2}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Why are the nations plotting rebellion?\FTNT{*}{{\FR 2:1 }{\FT{“Plotting rebellion”: The word is only found here in the OT and is variously translated as “rage,” “uproar,” “assemble,” “consult together.” In the context and with the Hebrew verse parallelism it seems that “conspiring” or “plotting rebellion” best fits here.}}} The peoples devise schemes, but they're pointless.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The kings of the world prepare to attack,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 2:2 }{\FT{“To attack”—implied.
}}} and the rulers conspire together against the Lord and his anointed one,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 2:2 }{\FT{In this context “anointed one” means the king of Israel.}}} saying,


\par }{\Q \VS{3}“Let's break the chains and throw away the cords that bind us.”


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But the one who sits enthroned in heaven laughs. The Lord mocks them.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}He will thunder at them, and terrify them in his fury, saying,


\par }{\Q \VS{6}“It is I who placed my king on Zion, my holy mountain.”


\par }{\Q \VS{7}“I will proclaim the Lord's decree,” says the king. “He told me, ‘You are my son. Today I have become your father.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 2:7 }{\FT{Literally, “begotten you.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Ask me, and I will give you the nations as your possessions—the whole earth will belong to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You will break them with a rod of iron, smashing them like pottery.’ ”


\par }{\Q \VS{10}So then you kings, be wise!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 2:10 }{\FT{Referring back to those mentioned in verse 2.}}} Be warned, you rulers of the world!


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Serve the Lord in reverence, celebrate with trembling!


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Submit to his son\FTNT{†}{{\FR 2:12 }{\FT{“Son”: referring to verse 7.
}}} so that he will not become angry and you die suddenly. His anger\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 2:12 }{\FT{“Anger”: throughout the Psalms God is spoken of as becoming angry, usually in response to sin and wickedness. However, this should not be equated to the human form of anger with its volatile, unpredictable, and emotional elements. It is really describing God's strong hostility to evil.}}} flares up quickly, but how happy are all those who go to him for protection.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{3}{\D A psalm of David concerning the time he had to flee from his son Absalom.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, my enemies have become so many; so many are rebelling\FTNT{*}{{\FR 3:1 }{\FT{Since David is the writer this is clearly a reference to a widespread rebellion against him as king.}}} against me.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}So many are telling me, “God can't save you!” Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}But you, Lord, are a shield protecting me. You give me victory;\FTNT{†}{{\FR 3:3 }{\FT{Literally, “you are my glory” which makes little sense in English.}}} you hold my head high.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I cry out to the Lord for help, and he answers me from his holy mountain. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I lie down to sleep, and in the morning\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 3:5 }{\FT{Implied.}}} I wake up because the Lord takes care of me.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I'm not afraid of tens of thousands who surround me, people who are against me.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Stand up for me, Lord! Save me, my God! Hit all my enemies on the cheek; break the teeth of the wicked!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Salvation belongs to you, Lord; may you be a blessing to your people. Selah.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{4}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David, to be accompanied by string instruments.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}When I call, please answer me, God who vindicates me. When I was hemmed in by troubles, you gave me a way out. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}How long will you people ruin my reputation? How long will you love what is worthless and tell lies? Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You should realize that the Lord shows special favor to the faithful. The Lord listens when I call to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Be in awe;\FTNT{*}{{\FR 4:4 }{\FT{Some translate this word as “anger,” but the sense of this verse is to realize God's abilities and consequently to turn away from sinful actions.}}} do not sin. When you rest, reflect on this, and keep quiet! Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Offer sacrifices with the right attitude. Trust in the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Many say, “Who is going to show us some good?” Lord, may your face shine upon us.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 4:6 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{Numbers 6:26}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The happiness you give me is better than those who have a plentiful harvest of grain and new wine.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you, Lord, alone keep me safe.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 4:8 }{\FT{Alternatively: “for you Lord keep me safe, even being alone.”}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{5}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David, to be accompanied by flutes.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, please listen to me. Don't ignore my groans of distress.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Hear me pleading for help, my King and my God, because I'm praying to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Please listen to what I have to say in the morning, Lord. Every morning I put my requests to you\FTNT{*}{{\FR 5:3 }{\FT{“I put my requests to you.” Alternatively “I offer a sacrifice to you.”}}} and wait for your reply.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 5:3 }{\FT{Implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}For you are not a God who has any pleasure in wickedness; evil has no place with you.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The proud cannot come into your presence; you hate everyone who does evil.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}You destroy those who tell lies. The Lord loathes bloodthirsty and deceptive people.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}But because of the greatness of your trustworthy love, I can come into your house; in awe of you, I bow down towards your holy Temple.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Lead me, Lord, you who always does what is right, save me from my enemies. Make your way clear to me.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Nothing they\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 5:9 }{\FT{Referring to David's enemies.}}} say can be trusted; their main desire is to destroy. Their throat is like an open grave; their tongues are full of flattery.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}God, condemn them as guilty! Make them fall because of their evil plans. Throw them out because of all their sins, for they have rebelled against you.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}But may all those who trust in you be happy—may they sing for joy forever. May you spread your protection over them so that everyone who loves your character may celebrate.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}For you, Lord, bless those who live right; you protect them with your shield of love.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{6}{\D For the music director. To be accompanied by stringed instruments, according to the sheminith.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 6: }{\FT{The meaning of this term is not known.}}} A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, please don't condemn me because you're angry with me; please don't punish me because you're angry with me!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am weak; heal me, Lord, for I am sick to the bone.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I'm shaking all over in fear. How long will it be, Lord, before you do something?


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Turn,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 6:4 }{\FT{This could either mean to turn towards the psalmist, or for the Lord to change his mind and heal the psalmist.}}} Lord, and rescue me! Save me because of your trustworthy love!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For no one remembers you when they're dead. Who is able to praise you from the grave?


\par }{\Q \VS{6}My groaning has exhausted me. Every night I soak my bed with my crying; I drench my couch with my tears.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}With all my crying I can hardly see; my eyes grow weak because of the trouble my enemies cause me.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Leave me alone, all you people who do evil, for the Lord has heard me crying!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The Lord has heard me calling out for help; the Lord answers my prayer.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}All who hate me will be shamefully defeated and terrified; they will run away in disgrace.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{7}{\D A psalm (shiggaion) of David, which he sang to the Lord concerning Cush, from the tribe of Benjamin.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord my God, you are my protection. Save me from those who persecute me; please rescue me!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Otherwise they will tear me apart like a lion, ripping me to pieces with no one to save me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}If I have done what I'm accused of,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 7:3 }{\FT{“Done what I'm accused of”: literally, “done this.”}}} if my hands are guilty,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}If I have paid back a friend with evil, if I have robbed my enemy for no reason,


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Then let my enemies chase me down; let them trample me in the dust and drag my reputation through the dirt. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Stand up, Lord, in your anger, rise up against the fury of my enemies; wake up, Lord, and bring me justice!\FTNT{†}{{\FR 7:6 }{\FT{The psalmist is using imagery that is very human to describe God. Telling God to wake up is surely not meant to be taken literally, but a plea for God to act. Similarly the appeal for God's anger to be directed against the fury of his enemies reflects a desire to be vindicated, not a description of the nature of God.
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Bring together the nations before you; rule them from your throne on high.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord judges all people. Defend me, Lord, because I do what is right, because of my integrity.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Please bring an end to the evil done by the wicked; vindicate those who do good, for you are the God of right who examines hearts and minds.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The Most High God is my defense, the one who saves those who live right.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}God is a fair judge who is always hostile to evil.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}If people do not change their minds, he will sharpen his sword. He has bent and strung his bow.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}He has prepared weapons of death, he has his flaming arrows ready.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}See how the wicked conceive evil! They are pregnant with trouble. They give birth to dishonesty.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}They dig a deep hole to catch people, but then fall into it themselves.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}The trouble they cause rebounds to hit them on the head; their violence against others comes down on their own skulls.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I will thank the Lord because he does what is right; I will sing praises to the name of the Lord Most High.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{8}{\D For the music director. On the gittith. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, our Lord, your magnificent reputation\FTNT{*}{{\FR 8:1 }{\FT{Literally, “name.” In Hebrew thought name was a description of reputation and character.}}} fills the earth! Your majesty is greater than the heavens above,


\par }{\Q \VS{2}and is sung by the voices of children and infants. Your strength counters your opponents, silencing the enemy and the avenger.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}When I contemplate the heavens that your hands made, the moon and stars that you placed there,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}What are human beings that you should concern yourself with them? What are people that you should care for them?


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You created them a little lower than God,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 8:5 }{\FT{“God”: or, “the angels” or “heavenly beings.” The word used is “elohim,” one of the usual names for God.}}} crowning them with glory and majesty.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}You put them in charge of all that you made, giving them authority over everything:


\par }{\Q \VS{7}the sheep, the cattle, and the wild animals,


\par }{\Q \VS{8}the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea—everything that swims in the ocean.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Lord, our Lord, your magnificent reputation fills the earth!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{9}{\D For the music director. According to Muth-labben. A psalm of David.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 9: }{\FT{In some Hebrew manuscripts and the Septuagint, Psalms 9 and 10 are combined as one.}}}
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the amazing things you have done.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I will be glad and celebrate in you; I will sing praises to your wonderful nature, Most High God.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Those who hate me retreat; they fall back and die when you confront them.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}For you have judged that I am right; you have decided fairly from your throne of judgment.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You have condemned the nations; you have destroyed the wicked; you have wiped out their names forever and ever.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The enemies are finished, ruined forever; their cities are destroyed—even the memory of them is gone.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}But the Lord rules forever, his throne is set up for judgment.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord judges the world rightly; he judges the nations fairly.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The Lord is a place of safety for those who are oppressed, a fortress in times of trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Those who know your nature\FTNT{†}{{\FR 9:10 }{\FT{Literally, “name.”}}} trust in you, for you don't abandon those who come to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Sing praises to the Lord who reigns in Zion! Tell the nations what he has done!


\par }{\Q \VS{12}He does not forget to punish murderers; he does not ignore the cries of the suffering.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Be gracious to me, Lord! Look at how my enemies are persecuting me! Grab me back from the gates of death,


\par }{\Q \VS{14}so I can praise you at Zion's gates, happy that you have saved me.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}The nations have fallen into their own pit they dug; their feet are trapped by their own net they set.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}The Lord is known for his fairness; the wicked are trapped by their own actions. Higgaion. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}The wicked depart, going to the grave—all nations who turn their backs on God.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}But the needy will not be ignored forever, the hope of those who suffer will not always be dashed.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Stand up, Lord! Don't let human beings win! Let the nations be brought before you for judgment!


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Lord, terrify them! Let them know they are only human! Selah.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{10}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, why are you so distant? Why do you hide from me in times of trouble?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The wicked chase down the poor with impunity. May they be trapped by the evil schemes they themselves invented.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}For the wicked boast about what they want to do. They praise the greedy, but treat the Lord with contempt.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}The wicked are too proud to come to God. In all their thinking they never consider God.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}What they do always seems to go well. They're unaware of God's judgments. They ridicule all their enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They tell themselves, “Nothing bad is going to happen to me. I'll never be in trouble!”


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Their speech is full of cursing, lies, and threats; their tongues are always ready to spread trouble and cause evil.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}They hide out in ambush in the villages, ready to kill innocent passers-by. They are always on the lookout for their next victim.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}They lie in ambush like a lion ready to attack, ready to leap out from their hiding place to seize their victim. They capture the helpless, throwing a net over them.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Their victims are knocked down, laid low.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 10:10 }{\FT{It is uncertain as to whether this line refers to the victims or the wicked. If it is the latter, it could be translated, “They crouch down and lie low.”
}}} They fall under the strength of the wicked.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They tell themselves, “God won't notice. He's looking the other way. He won't ever see anything.”


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Take a stand, Lord! Raise your hand to strike! Don't forget those who can't defend themselves.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Why do the wicked think they can treat God with such contempt? Why do they think that God won't make them accountable?


\par }{\Q \VS{14}But you do see the trouble and grief they cause. Take it into your own hands. The helpless trust in you; you defend the orphans.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Destroy the power of the wicked, those evil people! Call each of them to account until there are none left!


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Lord, you are King forever and ever! The nations will vanish from their lands.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Lord, you have heard the longing cries of those who are suffering. You will encourage them, for you will listen to them.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}You will defend the rights of orphans and the oppressed so that those who are mere human beings here on earth will never terrorize them again.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{11}{\D For the music director: A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, you are my protection. So how can you tell me, “Fly away to the mountains like a bird”?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Look, the wicked are drawing their bows, loading them with arrows ready to shoot from the shadows at good people.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}When the foundations of society are destroyed, what can those who live right do?


\par }{\Q \VS{4}The Lord is in his Temple; the Lord's throne is in heaven. He keeps a close eye on everyone, watching them carefully.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The Lord examines both those who do right and those who do evil, but he hates those who love violence.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He will make blazing coals and sulfur rain down on the wicked; a scorching wind is what's coming on them.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The Lord does what is right, and he loves those who live right. Those who do good will see him face to face.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{12}{\D For the music director. To the Sheminith. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Help, Lord, for all the good people have gone! Those who trust in you have disappeared from among the people on earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Everyone lies to their neighbors. They flatter with nice talk, but they don't mean what they say.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 12:2 }{\FT{Literally, they have “double hearts.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Stop their flattery, Lord, and silence their boasts—


\par }{\Q \VS{4}these people who say, “We will succeed through what we say; our mouths belong to us. We don't take orders from anyone!”


\par }{\Q \VS{5}“Because of the violence the helpless have suffered, and because of the groans of the poor, I will rise up to defend them,” says the Lord. “I will give them the protection they have been longing for.”


\par }{\Q \VS{6}What the Lord says is trustworthy, as pure as silver refined seven times in a furnace.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}You, Lord will keep the oppressed safe; you will protect us from these kinds of people forever;


\par }{\Q \VS{8}even though the wicked are all around us, and evil is being promoted everywhere.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 12:8 }{\FT{“Everywhere”: literally, “among the offspring of humankind.”}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{13}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}How long, Lord, are you going to forget me? Forever? How long will you turn away from me?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}How long must I be in inner turmoil, feeling sad all day long? How long will my enemy be victorious over me?


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Think about this, and answer me, Lord my God. Give me back my strength,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 13:3 }{\FT{Literally, “give light to my eyes.” Bright eyes were seen as indicative of good health.}}} otherwise I'm going to die,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}and my enemy will say, “I defeated him!” and my opponents will celebrate my downfall.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}But I trust in your never-failing love, I will be happy because you save me.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I will sing to the Lord because he has treated me with such generosity!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{14}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Only fools tell themselves, “God doesn't exist.” They are completely immoral; they commit terrible sins; not a single one of them does anything good.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The Lord watches from heaven to see whether anyone understands—if there's anyone who wants to come to God.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They have all gone their own way, they are totally depraved; none of them does anything good, not even one.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Won't these people who do evil ever learn? They consume my people as if they were eating bread, and refuse to pray to the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Look, they will become terrified, because God is with those who live right.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The wicked dismiss the plans of the poor people, but the Lord looks after them.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}If only the Lord's salvation would come from Zion! When the Lord restores\FTNT{*}{{\FR 14:7 }{\FT{The term used here is often applied to the return from Exile, but here would apply to the blessings the people would receive when they returned to God.}}} his people, the people of Jacob will celebrate, and the people of Israel will be glad.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{15}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Who may enter your sanctuary, Lord?\FTNT{*}{{\FR 15:1 }{\FT{Literally, “Who may dwell in your tent?”}}} Who may come into your presence on your holy mountain?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Those who live without fault and do what is right, those who sincerely tell the truth.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They do not slander, do not treat their neighbors badly, do not gossip about people they know.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}They reject people the Lord has rejected, but honor those who follow the Lord. They keep their promises even when it's hard to do. They don't change their minds.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They lend money without charging interest. They don't take bribes to testify against the innocent. Those who act like this will never ever fall.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{16}{\D A psalm (miktam) of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Take care of me, Lord, for I come to you for protection.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I tell the Lord, “Apart from you Lord, I don't have anything that's good.”


\par }{\Q \VS{3}As for the holy people in the land, they are the ones who are truly great. I appreciate them.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 16:3 }{\FT{The meaning of this verse is unclear.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Those who run after other gods will face a lot of trouble. I will not participate in their offerings of blood, I will not even speak the names of their gods.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Lord, you alone are all I have; you give me what I need; you safeguard my future.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 16:5 }{\FT{Literally, “You are my portion, my cup, and you maintain my lot.”
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The land divisions have worked out in my favor\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 16:6 }{\FT{Referring to the way in which land was divided up, particularly when the Promised Land was first settled. What the psalmist is saying is that the dividing lines produced land that was good for him. Literally, “The measuring lines have fallen for me in pleasant places.”}}}—my property is wonderful!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I will bless the Lord who gives me good advice; even at night my conscience\FTNT{§}{{\FR 16:7 }{\FT{Literally, “my kidneys.”}}} tells me what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I have always kept the Lord in front of me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.

\VS{9}That's why I'm so happy! That's why I am full of joy! That's why my body lives in hope!


\par }{\Q \VS{10}For you will not abandon me in the grave, nor will you allow your Holy One to experience decay.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}You have shown me the path of life, filling me with joy with your presence and the delight of living with you forever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{17}{\D A prayer of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, please hear my cry for justice! Please pay attention to my call for help! Listen to the prayer of an honest man!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 17:1 }{\FT{Literally, “which is not among the lips of deceit.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Vindicate me before you—for you see what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You have observed my thoughts, you have visited me at night, you have examined me—and you have found nothing wrong. I promised myself I wouldn't say anything I shouldn't.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}With regard to the actions of others: I have done what you told me and I have avoided what violent people do.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 17:4 }{\FT{Or “I have seen what happens to violent people.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I have not strayed from your path; my feet have not slipped from it.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}God, I call out to you because I know you will answer; please listen carefully to what I have to say.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Show me how wonderful your trustworthy love really is, Savior of those who come to you for protection against their enemies!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Keep me safe as someone you love;\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 17:8 }{\FT{Literally, “Guard me as the pupil of your eye.”
}}} hide me underneath your wings.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Protect me from the attacks of the wicked who want to destroy me, from my enemies who surround me, intent on killing me.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}They have no compassion,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 17:10 }{\FT{Literally, “They close up the fat.”}}} and all they have to say is pure arrogance.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They hunt me down and surround me, looking for the chance to knock me down in the dust.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}They are like lions, longing to tear their prey apart; like fierce lions crouching in ambush.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Lord, stand up and confront them! Force them to back down! By your sword rescue me from the wicked!


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Lord, by your power, save me from people whose only thought is for this world. May they be filled with what you have in store for them, their children too, with left-overs for their grandchildren!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 17:14 }{\FT{The meaning of this verse is uncertain, even whether it is a blessing or a curse. From the context it is certainly an appeal for God to vindicate the good and punish the bad.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{15}As for me, I shall see your face in all its goodness. When I awake, I will be so pleased to see you face to face.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{18}{\D To the music director. A psalm of David the servant of the Lord, who sang the words of this song to the Lord on the day when the Lord saved him from all his enemies, and from Saul. He sang:
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I love you, Lord. You are my strength.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my Savior. He is my God, my rock who protects me. He shields me from harm, his power protects me,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 18:2 }{\FT{Literally, “horn of my salvation.”}}} he keeps me safe.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I call for help from the Lord who should be praised, and he saves me from those who hate me.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Ropes of death encircled me, surging waters of destruction flooded over me;


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The grave wound its ropes around me; death set snares for me.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}In my despair I called on the Lord—I cried out to my God for help. He heard my voice from his Temple—my cry for help reached his ears.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The earth shook to and fro; the foundations of the mountains trembled, shaking because of his anger.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Smoke came out of his nostrils, and fire came from his mouth; burning coals blazed before him.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He parted the heavens and came down, with dark clouds beneath his feet.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Riding on an angel\FTNT{†}{{\FR 18:10 }{\FT{Literally, “cherub,” but in English this has become associated with an angelic baby.}}} he flew, swooping on the wings of the wind.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}He hid himself in darkness, covering himself with black thunderclouds.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Hailstones and burning coals flew out from his brightness, passing through his thick clouds.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}The Lord thundered from heaven; the voice of the Most High sounded among the hailstones and burning coals.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}He fired his arrows, scattering his enemies;\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 18:14 }{\FT{Implied.}}} he routed them with his lightning bolts.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}You roared, Lord, and by the wind from the breath of your nostrils the valleys of the sea were exposed and the foundations of the earth were uncovered.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}He reached down his hand from above and grabbed hold of me. He pulled me out of the deep water.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}He rescued me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me and who were much stronger than me.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}They came at me at my worst possible moment\FTNT{§}{{\FR 18:18 }{\FT{Literally, “my day of disaster.”}}}, but the Lord supported me.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}He set me free,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 18:19 }{\FT{Literally, “brought me out to a spacious place.”}}} he rescued me because he's my friend.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 18:19 }{\FT{Or “he delights in me.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{20}The Lord rewarded me because I do what's right; he repaid me because I am innocent.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 18:20 }{\FT{Literally, “because of the cleanness of my hands.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{21}For I have followed the Lord's ways; I have not sinned by turning away from my God.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}I have kept all his laws in mind; I have not ignored his commandments.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}I am blameless in his sight; I keep myself from sinning.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}The Lord rewarded me for doing what's right. I am innocent in his sight.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}You show trust to those who trust; you show integrity to those with integrity,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 18:25 }{\FT{The word used here means “complete” or “sound.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{26}You show yourself pure to those who are pure, but you show yourself smart to those who are crafty.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 18:26 }{\FT{Both words used here have to do with being “twisted,” the first in the sense of being clever, the second in the sense of being devious and perverse.
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{27}You save the humble, but you bring down the proud.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}You light my lamp! Lord, my God, you light up my darkness!


\par }{\Q \VS{29}With you, I can charge down a troop of soldiers; with you, my God, I can climb a fortress wall.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}God's way is absolutely right.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 18:30 }{\FT{The word used here, often translated as “perfect,” is the same as in
}}{\XT{18:25}}{\FT{.}}} What the Lord says is trustworthy. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}For who is God except the Lord? Who is the rock, except our God?


\par }{\Q \VS{32}God makes me strong and keeps me safe.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}He makes me surefooted like the deer, able to walk the heights in safety.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}He teaches me how to fight in battle; he gives me the strength to draw a bronze bow.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}You protect me with the shield of your salvation; you support me with your powerful right hand; your help has made me great.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}You gave me space in which to walk, and prevented my feet from slipping.


\par }{\Q \VS{37}I chased my enemies, and caught up with them. I did not turn around until I had destroyed them.


\par }{\Q \VS{38}I struck them down—they couldn't get up. They fell at my feet.


\par }{\Q \VS{39}You made me strong for battle; you made those who rose up against me kneel down before me.


\par }{\Q \VS{40}You made my enemies run away; I destroyed all my enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{41}They cried out for help, but no one came to rescue them. They even called out to the Lord, but he did not answer them.


\par }{\Q \VS{42}I ground them into dust, like dust in the wind. I threw them out like mud in the street.


\par }{\Q \VS{43}You rescued me from rebellious people; you made me ruler over nations—people I didn't know now serve me.


\par }{\Q \VS{44}As soon as they hear of me, they obey; foreigners cringe before me.


\par }{\Q \VS{45}They lose heart, and come trembling in surrender from their strongholds.


\par }{\Q \VS{46}The Lord lives! Blessed be my rock! May the God who saves me be praised!


\par }{\Q \VS{47}God avenges me, he subdues peoples under me,


\par }{\Q \VS{48}he rescues me from those who hate me. You keep me safe from those who rebel against me, you save me from violent men.


\par }{\Q \VS{49}That's why I will praise you among the nations, Lord; I will sing praises about who you are.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 18:49 }{\FT{“About who you are”: Literally, “to your name”: the concept of name in Hebrew is far more than a simple designation; it refers to the character of the person.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{50}You have saved the king so often,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 18:50 }{\FT{Or “You have given many victories to the king.”}}} showing your trustworthy love to David, your anointed, and to his descendants forever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{19}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The heavens declare God's glory; the skies above announce what he has made.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Each day speaks constantly about God's glory to the next day; each night shares knowledge of God with the next night.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They speak without speech or words; their voice is not audible;


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Yet what they say is heard all over the earth; their message goes to the whole world. God has made a home in the heavens\FTNT{*}{{\FR 19:4 }{\FT{Implied; literally, “in them.”}}} for the sun.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}It's like a bridegroom coming out of his room, like a fit athlete happy to run a race.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}It rises on one side of the heavens and travels across to the other. Nothing is hidden from its heat.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The Lord's law is beneficial,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 19:7 }{\FT{The word used here, often translated as “perfect,” is the same as in
}}{\XT{18:25}}{\FT{ and
}}{\XT{18:30}}{\FT{, and indicates not only perfection but aspects that are wholesome and healthful.
}}} renewing spiritual life. The Lord's teaching is trustworthy, making inexperienced people wise.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord's instructions are right, making people glad. The Lord's commandments are sincere, helping people see what is good.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Reverence for the Lord is right, and lasts forever. The Lord's judgments are both true and fair.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}They\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 19:10 }{\FT{Referring to God's laws.
}}} are more to be valued than gold, even the finest gold; they are sweeter than honey, even the purest honey coming straight from the honeycomb.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They also warn\FTNT{§}{{\FR 19:11 }{\FT{Or “enlighten.”}}} your servant. By keeping them I'm richly rewarded.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Who's aware of their own mistakes? Don't punish me for these faults I'm unaware of.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Don't let your servant commit deliberate sins. Don't let them rule over me. Then I will be without fault, innocent of such rebellion.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}May you be pleased with the words I speak, and the thoughts I think, Lord my rock and my redeemer.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{20}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}May the Lord answer you when you are in trouble; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 20:1 }{\FT{The word “name” in the Old Testament represents not just the person but their nature and character.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}May the Lord send you help from the sanctuary, and may he support you from Zion.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}May the Lord remember all your offerings, and accept all your burnt sacrifices. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}May the Lord give you whatever you really want; may he make all your plans successful.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}May we shout for joy over your victory, and set up banners in the name of our God.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 20:5 }{\FT{The people address the king and his victory, and then look to set up banners in celebration.}}} May the Lord answer all your requests.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Now I know that the Lord saves the one he has anointed. He will answer him from his holy heaven, and save his anointed by his powerful right hand.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Some trust in chariots and some in war horses, but we trust in who\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 20:7 }{\FT{“Who”: literally, “name.”}}} the Lord our God is.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}They collapse and fall down, but we rise and stand up.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}May the Lord save the king! Please answer us when we call for help!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{21}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The king celebrates your strength, Lord; he is so happy you made him victorious!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You gave him everything he wanted; you didn't hold back anything he asked for.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You welcomed him on his return with special blessings; you placed a crown of pure gold on his head.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}He asked you to give him a good life, and you gave him a long life, forever and ever.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Your victories brought him great glory; you granted him splendor and majesty.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}You give him blessings forever. He is full of joy because you are with him.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For the king trusts in the Lord; he stands firm because of the trustworthy love of the Most High.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You, the king,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 21:8 }{\FT{Implied.}}} will find and capture all your enemies; you will seize everyone who hates you.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}When you appear on the scene you will burn them up like in a furnace; the Lord in his anger will destroy them, burning them up with fire.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}You will wipe out their children from the earth, their descendants from humankind.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Though they plot evil against you, their malicious schemes will not succeed.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}They will turn and run away when they see your arrows fired at them.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Rise up, Lord, for you are strong! We will sing and praise your power!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{22}{\D For the music director. To the tune “Doe of the Dawn.” A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I groan, asking for help?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}My God, every day I cry out to you, but you don't answer; at night too, but I get no rest.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Yet you are holy, and the praises of Israel are your throne.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 22:3 }{\FT{The image is thought to be of the Ark of Agreement within the Temple as the earthly location of the presence of God.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Our forefathers trusted in you; they trusted and you rescued them.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They cried out to you for help, and they were saved. They trusted in you and were not defeated.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 22:5 }{\FT{“Defeated”: literally, “put to shame.” The concept of being disgraced is closely linked to defeat and is used in this connection in several psalms.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}But I'm a worm, not a man, scorned and despised by everyone.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}People who see me mock me. They laugh at me\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 22:7 }{\FT{Literally, “they open wide their lips.”}}} and shake their heads, saying,


\par }{\Q \VS{8}“He trusts in the Lord—well then, let the Lord save him! If the Lord is such a friend, then let the Lord rescue him!”


\par }{\Q \VS{9}However, you brought me safely through birth, and led me to trust in you at my mother's breasts.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}I was entrusted to you from birth; from the time I was born you have been my God.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Do not be distant from me, because trouble is close by and no one else can help.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Enemies surround me like a herd of bulls; strong bulls from Bashan have encircled me.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Like roaring lions tearing at their prey they open their mouths wide against me.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}I feel like I'm being poured out like water. I'm falling apart as if all my bones have become loose. My mind feels like it's wax melting inside me.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}My strength has dried up like a piece of broken pottery. My tongue is stuck to the roof of my mouth. You're burying me as if I'm already dead.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 22:15 }{\FT{Literally, “you lay me down in the dust of death.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Evil men surround me like a pack of dogs. They have pierced\FTNT{*}{{\FR 22:16 }{\FT{Dead Sea Scrolls. The Hebrew text reads “like a lion.”}}} my hands and feet.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I'm so thin\FTNT{†}{{\FR 22:17 }{\FT{Implied.
}}} I can count all my bones. People stare at me and gloat.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}They divide my clothing among them; they roll dice\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 22:18 }{\FT{Literally, “cast lots.”}}} for my clothes.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}But you, Lord, don't be far away from me! You are my strength—hurry, come and help me!


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Save me from death by the sword! Save my life—the only one I have—from the dogs!


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Rescue me from the mouth of the lion and from the wild bulls!


\par }{\Q \VS{22}I will tell my people all the wonderful things you have done;\FTNT{§}{{\FR 22:22 }{\FT{Literally, “proclaim your name.”}}} I will praise you in the congregation.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Praise the Lord, all who worship him! Honor him, every descendant of Jacob! Be in awe of him, every descendant of Israel!


\par }{\Q \VS{24}For he has not ridiculed or scorned the suffering of the poor; he has not turned away from them, he has listened to their cries for help.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}You are the subject of my praise in the great assembly. I will fulfill my promises before those who worship you.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}The poor shall eat, and they shall be satisfied. All who come to the Lord will praise him—may you all live forever!


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Everyone in the whole world will repent and return to the Lord; all the nations will worship before you.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}For kingly power belongs to the Lord; he is the one who rules over the nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}All who prosper come to feast and worship. Bow down before him, all those destined for the grave—for none can keep themselves alive.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 22:29 }{\FT{The Hebrew of this verse is unclear.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{30}Our descendants will serve him; they will tell the next generation about the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}They will come and tell those yet to be born how good the Lord is, and all that he has done!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{23}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Since the Lord is my shepherd, I have everything I need.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}He gives me rest in green fields. He leads me towards quietly flowing streams.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}He revives me. He guides me along the right paths because that's the kind of person he is.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Even when I walk through the valley dark as death, I'm not afraid of any evil, because you are right there with me; your rod and your staff protect me.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You prepare a banquet for me before my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with olive oil. My cup is so full it overflows!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I'm absolutely certain that your goodness and trustworthy love will be with me all through my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{24}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The earth is the Lord's, and everything that is in it belongs to him. The world is his, and everyone who lives there.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}For he is the one who laid its foundations on the seas, setting it in place on the waters.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Who is allowed to go up the Lord's mountain? Who is permitted to stand in his holy place?


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Those who have clean hands\FTNT{*}{{\FR 24:4 }{\FT{“Clean” in the sense of innocent and not guilty of sin.}}} and pure minds, who don't worship idols,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 24:4 }{\FT{“Don't worship idols” or “don't take the name of the Lord in vain.”}}} and who don't lie under oath.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They will take with them the blessing of the Lord, vindicated by the God who saves them.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}These are the kind of people who may go to the Lord and worship before you, God of Jacob. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Open up, you gates! Swing wide, you ancient doors! Let the King of glory come in!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and powerful, mighty in battle.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Open up, you gates! Swing wide, you ancient doors! Let the King of glory come in!


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Who is this King of glory? The Lord Almighty, he is the King of glory! Selah.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{25}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, I come to worship you.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 25:1 }{\FT{Literally, “I lift up my soul to you.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I trust in you, my God. Don't let me be humiliated, and don't let my enemies triumph over me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}No one who trusts in you will be humiliated, but humiliation comes to those who are deliberately dishonest.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Show me your ways, Lord; teach me to follow your paths.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. All day long I put my trust in you.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Remember, Lord, your compassion and trustworthy love—they are eternal!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Please don't remember the sins of my youth when I rebelled against you. Instead, remember me according to your trustworthy love, remember me because of your goodness, Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord is good and he is right; that is why he shows the way to those who are lost.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 25:8 }{\FT{“Those who are lost”: often translated “sinners,” the underlying meaning is “those who miss the right path,” “go astray.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He leads those who are humble in doing what's right, teaching them his way.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The Lord's paths are those of trustworthy love and truth for those who keep his agreement\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 25:10 }{\FT{Or “covenant.” Also verse 14.}}} and do as he says.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Lord, because of your nature, forgive my many sins.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Who are those who respect the Lord? He will show them the path to choose.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}They will continue to be prosperous, and their descendants will inherit the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The Lord is friends with those who respect him, explaining to them his agreement.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}I always look to the Lord, for he rescues me when I'm trapped.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 25:15 }{\FT{“Rescues me when I'm trapped”: literally, “pulls my feet out of the net” (for catching birds).}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Watch over me and be good to me, because I am all alone and suffering.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}My problems get bigger and bigger. Please save me from all I'm going through.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}See all my troubles and trials. Please forgive my sins.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Look at how many enemies I have, and how they really hate me!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 25:19 }{\FT{Literally, “hate me with violent hatred.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Please look after me and save me! Don't let me be humiliated, for you are the one who protects me.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}May integrity and honesty defend me because I place my confidence in you.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}God, please deliver the people of Israel from all their troubles!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{26}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Confirm that I'm innocent, Lord, for I have acted with integrity, and I have trusted in the Lord without fail.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Examine me, Lord, test me; investigate my thoughts and intentions.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}For I always remember your trustworthy love, and I follow your truth.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I don't join in with liars and I don't associate with hypocrites.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I refuse to get together with those who do evil, and I won't involve myself with the wicked.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I wash my hands to show my innocence. I come to worship\FTNT{*}{{\FR 26:6 }{\FT{Literally, “I march around your altar”—part of the actions of worship.}}} at your altar, Lord,


\par }{\Q \VS{7}singing my thanks, telling of all the wonderful things you have done.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Lord, I love your house, the place where you live in your glory.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Please don't sweep me away along with sinners. Don't include me with those who commit murder,


\par }{\Q \VS{10}whose hands carry out their evil schemes and grab hold of bribes.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}For I don't do that—I act with integrity. Save me and be gracious to me!


\par }{\Q \VS{12}I stand for what's right,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 26:12 }{\FT{“I stand for what's right”: literally, “My foot stands on level ground.”}}} and I will praise the Lord when we meet together to worship him.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{27}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord is my light and my salvation! How could anyone scare me? The Lord is my life's fortress! How could anyone terrify me?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}When evil people come at me to tear me apart, it's my enemies, those who are against me, they're the ones who trip and fall.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Even if an army surrounds me, I won't be frightened. Even if I am attacked, I will still trust in God.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I only ask the Lord for one thing: I just want to live in the house of the Lord throughout my life, contemplating the Lord's goodness and thinking about his Temple.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}When troubles come he will protect me and keep me safe, hiding me in his house,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 27:5 }{\FT{“House”: literally, “tent.” Also verse 6.}}} as secure as if he'd placed me on a high rock.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He will hold my head high over my enemies who are all around me. I shall offer sacrifices in his house with shouts of joy, and I will sing praises to the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Listen to me, Lord, when I call for help. Be gracious and answer me.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You told me, “Come to me.” I am coming to you, Lord.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 27:8 }{\FT{Or “I told myself, ‘I will go to the Lord.’ Lord, I am coming to you.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Don't refuse to talk to me. Don't be angry with your servant and turn away. You are the one who helps me, so please don't reject me and abandon me, God of my salvation.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Even if my father and my mother abandon me, the Lord will take care of me.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Lord, teach me your way and lead me along the right path, because my enemies are against me\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 27:11 }{\FT{“Are against me”: implied.}}}—


\par }{\Q \VS{12}don't hand me over to them and their evil intentions, for they are making false accusations against me and threatening me with violence.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}However, I'm absolutely sure that I will see the Lord's goodness even in this life.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Trust in the Lord! Be confident—he will give you courage! Trust in the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{28}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, my rock, I'm calling out to you. Please listen to me! For if you don't respond, I'll be like those who go down into the grave.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 28:1 }{\FT{“Grave”: literally, “pit.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Listen as I appeal for mercy, as I call for help, as I hold up my hands in prayer towards your holy Temple.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Don't drag me off with the wicked, with those who do evil, who speak nicely to their neighbors while in their minds they're plotting evil.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Give them what they deserve for their evil actions. Pay them back for what they've done. Give them the reward they've earned!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For they don't pay any attention to what the Lord does, or to what he created. So he will destroy them—they will never be restored.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Praise the Lord! For he has heard my appeal for mercy!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The Lord is my strength and my shield. I trust in him and he helps me. I'm so happy, and I sing my thanks to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord gives strength to his people; he is a safe refuge for the one he has anointed.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 28:8 }{\FT{In context this probably referred to Israel's king.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Save your people! Bless your “special possession”!\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 28:9 }{\FT{The Lord's “special possession” is his people Israel.}}} Be their shepherd and carry them in your arms forever!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{29}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Honor\FTNT{*}{{\FR 29:1 }{\FT{“Honor,” often translated by the now rather archaic term, “ascribe,” meaning to affirm a quality or attribute, give respect.}}} the Lord, children of God,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 29:1 }{\FT{Literally, “sons of gods.” This may refer to angels or to all thinking beings.}}} honor his glory and strength.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Honor the Lord for his glorious character, bow in reverence to the Lord in his brilliant holiness.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The Lord's voice sounds over the sea. The God of glory thunders. The Lord thunders over the vast ocean.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}The Lord's voice is powerful; the Lord's voice is majestic;


\par }{\Q \VS{5}the Lord's voice shatters the cedars, even breaking the cedars of Lebanon.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He makes the mountains of Lebanon skip like a calf, and Mount Hermon like a young wild ox.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The Lord's voice blazes out like lightning flashes.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord's voice causes an earthquake in the desert; the desert of Kadesh shakes.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The Lord's voice makes the pregnant deer go into labor; it strips bare the forests. In his Temple all the worshipers shout, “Glory!”


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The Lord sits on his throne above the floodwaters; the Lord is the eternal King.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses them with peace.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{30}{\D A psalm of David. A psalm for the dedication of the Temple.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I want to tell everyone how good you are, Lord, for you saved me, and you didn't let my enemies triumph over me.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Lord, my God, I called out to you for help, and you have healed me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Lord, you rescued me from the grave, you brought me back to life, saving me from going down into the pit of death.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}You who trust the Lord, sing praises to him, and be thankful for his holy character!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For his anger only lasts a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime. You may spend the night in tears, but happiness comes with the morning.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}When things were going well, I said, “Nothing will ever shake me!”


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Lord, when you showed me your favor I stood as strong as a mountain; when you turned away from me I was terrified.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I called out to you for help, Lord. I asked the Lord for grace, saying,


\par }{\Q \VS{9}What would you gain if I die, if I go down into the pit of death? Would my dust praise you? Would it tell of your trustworthiness?


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Please listen to me, Lord, and be gracious to me! Lord, you are the one who helps me.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}You have turned my weeping into dancing. You have taken off my clothes of sackcloth\FTNT{*}{{\FR 30:11 }{\FT{Wearing sackcloth was a sign of mourning.}}} and dressed me in happiness,


\par }{\Q \VS{12}so I can sing praises to you and not keep quiet. Lord my God, I will thank you forever!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{31}{\D A psalm of David. For the music director.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, you are the one who keeps me safe; please don't let me ever be humiliated. Save me, because you always do what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Please listen to me, and be quick to rescue me. Be my rock of protection, my strong fortress of safety.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You are my rock and my fortress. For the sake of your reputation, please lead me and guide me.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Help me escape from the hidden net that they set to trap me, for you are the one who protects me.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I put myself in your hands. Save me, Lord, for you are a trustworthy God.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I\FTNT{*}{{\FR 31:6 }{\FT{Some manuscripts have “You.”}}} hate those who devote themselves to pointless idols; I trust in the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I will celebrate, happy in your love that never fails, for you have seen the problems I face and have paid attention to my troubles.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You haven't handed me over to my enemies; you have set me free.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 31:8 }{\FT{“You have set me free”: literally, “you have set my feet in an open area.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Be kind to me Lord, for I am upset. I can hardly see from so much crying. I am completely wasting away.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Grief is killing me; my life is cut short by sadness; I am falling apart\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 31:10 }{\FT{“Falling apart”: literally, “stumbling.”}}} because of my troubles; I am worn to the bone.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I am ridiculed by my enemies, particularly by my neighbors. My friends dread meeting me; people who see me in the street run the other way.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}I have been forgotten as if I were dead; I'm ignored like a broken pot.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}I hear many people whispering about me; terror surrounds me. They plot together against me, planning to kill me.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}But I put my trust in you, Lord, saying, “You are my God!”


\par }{\Q \VS{15}My whole life\FTNT{§}{{\FR 31:15 }{\FT{“My whole life,” literally, “my times.”}}} is in your hands! Save me from those who hate me and persecute me!


\par }{\Q \VS{16}May you look kindly on me,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 31:16 }{\FT{Literally, “Let your face shine upon me.”}}} your servant. Save me because of your trustworthy love.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Lord, don't let me be disgraced, for I'm calling out to you. Instead let the wicked be disgraced, let them be silent in the grave.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Shut the mouths of those who tell lies against good people—those who speak contemptuously in their pride and arrogance!


\par }{\Q \VS{19}How wonderful is the goodness you have reserved for those who honor you! In front of everyone you give this goodness to those who come to you for help.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}You shelter and protect them with your presence, far from their enemies who scheme against them. You keep them safe from attacks and accusations.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Bless the Lord, for he has shown me his wonderful trustworthy love when my city was being attacked


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Terrified I cried out, “I am being destroyed right in front of you!” But you heard my cry when I called out for you to help me.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Love the Lord, all you who trust in him! The Lord takes care of those who trust him, but he pays back in full those who are arrogant.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Be strong and be confident,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 31:24 }{\FT{Literally, “strong of heart.”}}} all you who put your hope in the Lord.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{32}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}How happy are those whose wrongs are forgiven, whose sins are covered.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 32:1 }{\FT{The two verbs used here reflect differing ideas in relation to how sins are dealt with. In the first they are “carried away” (the Hebrew meaning of forgiveness), while in the second they are “covered” in the sense that they are no longer seen, rendered invisible. As in all metaphors, such concepts are limited since one can argue that sins cannot be “removed” in that the actions cannot be undone, nor are sins amenable to a “cover up” operation—meaning that while they are concealed they are still there. In all such discussions the wider concepts of the meaning of sin must be considered: as primarily a broken relationship with God, with wrong attitudes and actions that lead to separation and death.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}How happy are those whose sins the Lord does not count against them, those who do not act deceptively.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}When I kept quiet,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 32:3 }{\FT{“Kept quiet”—not confessing his sin. The resulting inner turmoil and stress resulted in health issues.}}} my body fell apart as I groaned in distress all day long.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}You beat me day and night,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 32:4 }{\FT{Literally, “Your hand was heavy on me.”}}} my strength dried up as in the heat of summer. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Then I confessed my sins to you. I did not hide the wrongs I had done. I said to myself, “I will confess my disobedience to the Lord,” and you forgave the guilt of my sins. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Therefore let all who are faithful pray to you while there's time, so when trouble comes in like a flood it will not overwhelm them.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For you are my refuge, you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of salvation. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}“I\FTNT{§}{{\FR 32:8 }{\FT{It is not clear from the text whether “I” refers to the Lord or to the psalmist. Here the verse is placed in quote marks assuming these are words of the Lord.
}}} will instruct you, teaching you the way to follow. I will advise you, watching out for you.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You mustn't be like a horse or a mule that doesn't know which way to go without a bit or a bridle. Otherwise they can't be controlled.”\FTNT{*}{{\FR 32:9 }{\FT{Literally, “or they will not come near you.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The wicked have many problems, but those who trust in the Lord will be surrounded by his never-failing love.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}So be happy in the Lord and celebrate, you who do good. Shout for joy, all you who live right!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{33}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Let those who do good shout for joy—those who live right should praise him!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Praise the Lord with the lyre, play music to him on the ten-stringed harp.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Sing a new song to him; play your instruments well and shout for joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}For the word of the Lord is true,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 33:4 }{\FT{Literally, “upright.”}}} and he is trustworthy in everything he does.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}He loves all that is good and right; the earth is full of the Lord's trustworthy love.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The Lord spoke the word and the heavens were made; his mouth breathed all the stars into existence.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He gathers the waters of the sea together, he keeps the ocean depths in store.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Let all the earth show reverence to the Lord; let all the world's inhabitants be in awe of him.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}For he spoke and the world came into existence; he gave the command and it was created.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The Lord foils the decisions of the nations, he frustrates the plans of the peoples,


\par }{\Q \VS{11}But the Lord's plan stands forever—what he decides lasts for all generations.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Happy is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he has chosen as specially belonging\FTNT{†}{{\FR 33:12 }{\FT{Literally, “inheritance.”}}} to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}The Lord looks from heaven and sees the whole of humanity,


\par }{\Q \VS{14}from his throne he watches all those who live on earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}He created their minds,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 33:15 }{\FT{Literally, “hearts.”}}} so he knows everything they do.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Even the greatest army cannot save a king; the greatest strength cannot save a warrior.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Don't deceive yourself: a warhorse can't give you victory—even its incredible strength won't save you.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}The Lord watches over those who reverently follow him, those who place their hope in his trustworthy love


\par }{\Q \VS{19}to save them from death and to keep them alive when famine strikes.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}We place our confidence in the Lord; he is our help and our defender.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 33:20 }{\FT{Literally, “shield.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{21}We are so happy about him, for we trust in his holy character.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Lord, let your trustworthy love rest upon us as we hope in you.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{34}{\D A psalm of David concerning the time he pretended to be mad in front of Abimelech who then sent him away.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I will always bless the Lord; my mouth will continually praise him.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}From the bottom of my heart I am proud of the Lord; those who are humble will hear and be happy.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Glorify God with me; together let's honor his reputation.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I asked the Lord for help, and he answered me. He set me free from all my fears.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The faces of those who look to him will shine with joy; they will never be downcast with shame.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard me, and saved me from all my troubles.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The angel of the Lord stands guard over all those who honor him, keeping them safe.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Taste, and you will see that the Lord is good! How happy are those who trust in his protection!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 34:8 }{\FT{Literally, “take refuge in him.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Show your reverence for the Lord, you who are his holy people, for those who respect him have everything they need.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who trust in the Lord have all that is good.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Children, listen to me! I will teach you how to respect the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Who of you wants to live a long and happy life?


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Then don't let your tongue speak evil, or your lips tell lies.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Reject what is evil, do what is good. Look for peace, and work to make it a reality.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}The Lord watches over those who do right, and he hears when they cry for help.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}The Lord sets himself against those who do evil. He will wipe out even the memory of them from the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}But when his people\FTNT{†}{{\FR 34:17 }{\FT{Implied.
}}} call out for help, he hears them and rescues them from all their troubles.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}The Lord is close beside those who are broken-hearted; he saves those whose spirits are crushed.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Those who do right have many problems, but the Lord solves all of them.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}He keeps them safe—not a single one of their bones will be broken.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Evil kills the wicked. Those who hate good people will suffer for their wrongdoing.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}The Lord saves the lives of his servants. Those who trust in his protection will not suffer for their wrongdoings.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{35}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Oppose my opponents, Lord; fight those who are fighting against me.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Put your armor on, and pick up your shield. Get ready, come and help me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Draw your spear and your javelin, confront those who are chasing me. Tell me, “I am your salvation!”


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Shame them! Humiliate those who are trying to kill me! Turn them back! Disgrace those who are planning to hurt me!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Let them be like chaff blown by the wind; let the angel of the Lord drive them away.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}May their path be dark and slippery, with the angel of the Lord chasing them down.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For no reason they set a net to catch me; for no reason they dug a pit to trap me.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Let disaster come on them suddenly; let the net they set catch them instead; let the pit they dug trap them instead.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Then I will be glad in the Lord; I will be happy in his salvation.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Every part of me\FTNT{*}{{\FR 35:10 }{\FT{Literally, “all of my bones.”}}} will say, Who can compare to you, Lord? You rescue the weak from the strong; the poor and needy from robbers.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Hostile witnesses stand up to testify against me, accusing me of crimes I don't know anything about.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}They pay me back with evil instead of good. I feel like giving up.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 35:12 }{\FT{Literally, “my soul is forlorn.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{13}But when they were sick, I put on clothes of sackcloth\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 35:13 }{\FT{“Clothes of sackcloth”—a sign of mourning.
}}} in sympathy. I denied myself through fasting. May my prayer for them return to bless me too.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 35:13 }{\FT{Literally, “my prayer returned to my bosom.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{14}I was upset for them, as if they were my own friends or family; I bowed down in grief as if I was mourning my own mother.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}But when I was in trouble, they gathered around and laughed at me. Even strangers I don't know attacked me, constantly tearing me apart.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Like irreligious people mocking a cripple\FTNT{*}{{\FR 35:16 }{\FT{The Hebrew here is unclear.}}} they mock me and call me names, gnashing their teeth at me.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}How long, Lord, will you sit by and just watch? Save me from their vicious attacks; defend the only life I have from these lions.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Then I will thank you in front of the whole congregation and praise you in front of all the people.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Don't let my enemies take pleasure in my troubles, those people who hate me and tell lies about me, gloating over me for no reason.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}They are not looking for peace; they invent malicious and deceptive schemes against innocent peace-loving people.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 35:20 }{\FT{Literally, “the quiet ones of the land.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{21}They open their mouths wide to make accusations against me, saying, “Look! Look! We saw it with our own eyes!”


\par }{\Q \VS{22}But Lord, you've seen all this! Say something! Don't give up on me, Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Wake up! Get up and defend me, my Lord and my God! Take up my case and make sure justice is done!


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Vindicate me, my Lord and my God, because you are just and right. Don't let them gloat over me.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Don't let them say to themselves, “Look! We got what we wanted!” Don't let them say, “We completely destroyed him!”


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Make them totally ashamed, all those who are happy for the trouble I'm in. Let those who are celebrating over me be covered with shame and dishonor.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Instead let those who are pleased I've been vindicated celebrate and shout for joy. Let them always say, “How great is the Lord! He is happy when his servants live in peace and have what they need.”\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 35:27 }{\FT{The word used here “shalom” is often translated as simply “peace.” However, it is not simply the absence of conflict but also refers to a happy and prosperous life.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{28}I will tell others about your character of truth and right, praising you all day long!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{36}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David, servant of the Lord.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Evil\FTNT{*}{{\FR 36:1 }{\FT{The word used here to personify evil is that normally used when God is speaking.}}} speaks to the wicked, deep down in their minds, for in their eyes they have no need to respect God.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}In their own eyes they're so wonderful that they can't even see their sin and do something about it.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 36:2 }{\FT{The Hebrew of this verse is unclear.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Whatever they say is deceptive and deceitful. They no longer do anything wisely or for good.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Even when they're lying in bed they think up evil schemes. They commit themselves to a way of life that is no good. They choose evil, and don't reject it.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Lord, your faithful love reaches to the heavens, your trustworthiness to the clouds.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Your goodness is like the highest mountains, your fairness is like the deepest oceans. Lord, you save both the people and the animals.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}God, how priceless is your trustworthy love! Everyone can find protection under the shelter of your wings.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}They gain strength from the wonderful food you provide in your house; you give them drink from your refreshing river.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You are the source of life; you are the light by which we see.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Extend your trustworthy love to those who know you, and your goodness to those who truly live right.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Don't let the arrogant trample me down; don't let the wicked drive me out.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Now look! See how those who do evil have fallen—thrown down, unable to get up.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{37}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Don't be upset over wicked people, or be jealous of those who do wrong.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}For like grass, they will quickly dry up; like plants, they will soon wither away.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Trust in the Lord, and do good. Live in the land and feed on faithfulness.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Find your happiness in the Lord, and he will give you what you want the most.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Entrust all that you do to the Lord. Place your confidence in him and he will help you.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He will make your vindication shine like a light, the rightness of your cause like the noonday sun.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Be still in God's presence; wait patiently for him. Don't be upset over people who prosper when they carry out their evil schemes.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Give up your anger! Let go of your rage! Don't get mad—it only results in evil!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}For the wicked will be destroyed, and those who trust in the Lord will take possession of the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}In a little while the wicked will be no more—though you look for them you won't find them.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The humble will own the land; they will live there happily, in peace and prosperity.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The wicked plot evil against those who do good, gnashing their teeth at them.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}But the Lord laughs at them, for he sees their coming day of judgment.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The wicked draw their swords, and bend their bows to destroy the poor and needy, to kill those who live right.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}But the swords of the wicked\FTNT{*}{{\FR 37:15 }{\FT{Implied.}}} will slice through their own hearts, and their bows will be broken.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}It's better to do right and only have a little, than to be wicked and rich.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}For the power of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord supports those who do right.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}The Lord knows what is happening to the innocent and grants them an eternal inheritance.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}They will not be humiliated in bad times; even in days of famine they will have plenty to eat.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}But the wicked will die. The enemies of the Lord are like the flowers of the field—they will vanish like smoke.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}The wicked borrow, but don't repay; while those who do right give generously.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Those who are blessed by God will own the land, but those he curses will die.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}The Lord shows the right path to those who follow him, and is happy with the way they live.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Though they may trip up, they will not fall to the ground, for the Lord holds their hand.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Once I was young, and now I've grown old, yet I've never seen those who do right abandoned, nor their children having to beg for bread.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}They are always kind, and generous with their loans; their children are a blessing.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Reject evil, do what is good, and you will live forever in the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}For the Lord loves fairness and he will never abandon those who are trustworthy. He will protect them forever. But the children of the wicked will die.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}Those who do right will own the land and will live there forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}People who do right give good advice, explaining what is fair.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}God's law lives in their minds, so they will not slip from his way.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}The wicked lie in wait for those who do good, intending to kill them.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}But the Lord will not let them fall into the hands of the wicked, and he will not let those who do good be condemned when they are put on trial.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}Trust in the Lord, and stay on his path. He will lift you up and give you the land to own. You will see when the wicked are destroyed.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}I have watched the wicked acting brutally, spreading like a large tree in its native land.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}But when I passed that way the next time, they were gone. I searched for them but couldn't find them.


\par }{\Q \VS{37}Observe the innocent, look at those who do right! Those who love peace have a future!


\par }{\Q \VS{38}But those who are rebellious will be altogether destroyed; the wicked have no future.


\par }{\Q \VS{39}The Lord saves those who live right; he is their protection in times of trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{40}The Lord helps them and rescues them from the wicked. He saves them because they go to him for protection.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{38}{\D A psalm of David, for a memorial.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, please don't condemn me because you're angry with me; don't punish me because you're furious with me!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Your arrows have pierced me deeply, your hand has come down hard on me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Because you're so upset with me, not a single part of my body is healthy; I am completely sick because of my sins.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I'm drowning in guilt—the burden is too heavy to bear.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}My wounds are infected—they're smelling—all because of my stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I am bent over, doubled up in pain. The whole day I walk around crying my eyes out.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Inside I'm burning up with fever; no part of my body is healthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I'm worn out, totally down. I groan because of the anguish I feel in my heart.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Lord, you know what I desperately want, you hear every sigh I make.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}My heart is racing, leaving me with no strength; my eyesight is failing.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}My loved ones and my friends don't come near me because they're afraid of what I've got. Even my family keeps me at a distance.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Those who are trying to kill me set traps for me; those who want to hurt me make threats against me, working on their deceitful schemes all day long.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}I act as if I'm deaf to what they're saying,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 38:13 }{\FT{Implied.}}} and pretend to be dumb so I don't have to speak.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Like a man who can't hear, and who doesn't reply—that's me!


\par }{\Q \VS{15}For I'm waiting on you, Lord! You will answer for me, my Lord and my God.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}I'm asking you, Lord, please don't let my enemies gloat over me, don't let them be glad when I trip up.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}For I'm about ready to collapse—the pain never stops.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}I do confess my sins; I am terribly sorry for what I've done.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}I have many powerful enemies—they are very active, hating me for no reason.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}They pay me back evil for good; they accuse me for the good I try to do.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Don't give up on me, my Lord and my God, don't stay away from me.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Hurry, come and help me, Lord my salvation.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{39}{\D For Jeduthun, the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I told myself, “I will be careful in what I do, and not sin in what I say. I will keep my mouth shut\FTNT{*}{{\FR 39:1 }{\FT{Literally, “I will keep a muzzle over my mouth.”}}} when the wicked are around.”


\par }{\Q \VS{2}So I was completely silent—I didn't even say anything good. But the pain inside only got worse.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}My mind burned as if on fire; I had to say what I was thinking:


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Lord, remind me.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 39:4 }{\FT{The psalmist is not actually asking for information, but protesting that he is suffering when his life is so short.}}} How short is my life? How long do I have? Remind me how quickly my life will pass.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Just look at the tiny amount of days you have given me! In your eyes my whole lifetime is like nothing. Our lives here are just a breath… Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Human beings are just shadows walking around. They pointlessly rush through life, trying to pile up possessions without knowing who will get them.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}So Lord, what am I looking for? I put my hope in you.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Save me from my rebellion.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 39:8 }{\FT{Sin is often regarded as rebellion against God.}}} Don't let me be mocked by fools.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}I will stay quiet, I won't say a word, for it's you who has done this to me.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Please stop hitting me! Your beating has worn me out!


\par }{\Q \VS{11}When you discipline us, reprimanding us for our sins, it's like a moth eating up what is precious to us. All of us are just a breath… Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Please hear my prayer, Lord! Listen to my cry for help! Don't be deaf to my weeping. Please treat me as your guest, passing through, just like my forefathers.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Please leave me alone so I can be cheerful again, before I am dead and gone.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{40}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I waited for the Lord patiently, and he turned to me—he heard my cry for help.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}He pulled me out of the pit of destruction,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 40:2 }{\FT{The word used here is usually translated “tumult” or “roaring” but is here thought to mean “desolation” or “destruction.”}}} out from the mud and the slime. He set me on a rock, and gave me a safe place to stand.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}He gave me a new song to sing, a song of praise to our God. Many people will see and be in awe, and they will put their trust in him.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Happy are those who trust in the Lord, who do not look for help from the arrogant or from those who worship idols.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 40:4 }{\FT{It is unclear from the text whether people or false gods are being described here.
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Lord my God, you have done so many wonderful things for us, and you have so many plans for us. No one compares to you. I want to tell all that you've done—blessings too many to count.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}You don't want sacrifices and offerings. Now you have helped me understand\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 40:6 }{\FT{Literally, “you have dug ears for me.”}}}—you're not asking for burnt offerings or sin offerings.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Then I said, “Look! Here I am! I've come to do what is written about me in the scroll of the Book.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I am pleased to do your will, my God—your Law guides my mind.”\FTNT{§}{{\FR 40:8 }{\FT{Literally, “your Law is in the midst of my intestines.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}I have announced the good news of salvation to the whole congregation.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 40:9 }{\FT{Probably referring to the large meetings at the Temple.
}}} I don't keep quiet, Lord, as you know.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}I have not kept the truth of your goodness hidden inside me—I have spoken of your trustworthiness and your salvation. I have not concealed your unfailing love and your faithfulness from the whole congregation.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Lord, please don't keep back your mercy from me. May your trustworthy love and faithfulness always be my protection.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}For I'm experiencing so many problems—I can't even count them! My sins have piled up so high I can't see over them. They're more than the number of hairs on my head! I feel like giving up!\FTNT{†}{{\FR 40:12 }{\FT{Literally, “my heart fails me.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Lord, please save me! Hurry, Lord, help me!


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Please defeat and humiliate the people who are trying to kill me; turn back in disgrace those who want to hurt me.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}May they be shocked at their defeat, those who taunted me.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}But may everyone who comes to you be happy and glad; may those who love your salvation always say, “The Lord is great!”


\par }{\Q \VS{17}As for me, I am poor and needy. May the Lord think about me. Help me! Save me! My God, please don't wait!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{41}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}How happy are those who take care of the poor! When they are in trouble the Lord will save them.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The Lord protects them and keeps them alive. They will live happily in the land, and they will not be handed over to their enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The Lord looks after them when they're sick; he makes them well from their illness.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}“Lord, please be gracious to me,” I asked. “Please heal me, for I have sinned against you.”


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Those who hate me only say evil things about me. “When is he going to die, and people forget all about him?” they ask.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They come to visit me, but their sympathy is not sincere. They're only interested in the bad news, which they spread around as soon as they leave.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}All who hate me talk in whispers about my condition, hoping for the worst.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}“He's been cursed with some terrible disease,”\FTNT{*}{{\FR 41:8 }{\FT{Literally, “a thing of wickedness has been poured out on him,” suggesting they think is under some kind of punishment.
}}} they say. “Now he's bed-ridden he'll never recover!”


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Even my best friend,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 41:9 }{\FT{Literally, “the man of my peace.”}}} the one I trusted, who shared meals with me—even he has turned against me.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}But you Lord, please be gracious to me, make me well so I can repay them!


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I know you are pleased with me because you have not let my enemies win and shout in triumph over me.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}You have supported me because of my integrity, you have brought me into your presence forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, from eternity to eternity! Amen and amen!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{42}{\D For the music director. A psalm (maskil) of the sons of Korah.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}As a deer longs for flowing streams, so I long for you, God.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I am thirsty for God, the living God. When can I go and see God's face?\FTNT{*}{{\FR 42:2 }{\FT{This phrase is thought to mean a spiritual experience, perhaps in the Temple.
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}My tears have been my only food, day and night, while people ask me all day long, “Where is your God?”


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I am crushed\FTNT{†}{{\FR 42:4 }{\FT{Literally, “I pour out within me my soul.”}}} as I remember how I walked with the crowds, leading them in a procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and songs of thanks among the worshipers at the festival.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Why am I so discouraged? Why do I feel so sad? I will hope in God; I will praise him because he is the one who saves me\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 42:5 }{\FT{Literally, “the acts of salvation of his face, my God.”}}}—


\par }{\Q \VS{6}my God! Even though I am very discouraged, I still remember you: from the land of Jordan and Hermon, and from Mount Mizar.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}You thunder through the raging waters, through the noise of the waterfalls. Your crashing waves surge over me—I feel like I'm drowning.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 42:7 }{\FT{Implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}But every day the Lord shows me his trustworthy love; every night he gives me songs to sing—a prayer to the God of my life.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}I cry out, “My God, my rock, why have you forgotten me? Why must I go around weeping because of the attacks of my enemies?”


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The mocking of my attackers crushes my bones. They're always asking me, “Where is your God?”


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Why am I so discouraged? Why do I feel so sad? I will hope in God; I will praise him because he is the one who saves me—my God!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{43}{\Q (Psalm 42 and 43 were originally one psalm.)

\par }{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please vindicate me! Plead my case against an unfaithful nation; save me from these wicked and dishonest people.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}For you, God, are my protection—so why have you turned your back on me? Why must I go around weeping because of the attacks of my enemies?


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Send your light and your truth so they can guide me; let them lead me to your holy mountain, to the place where you live.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I will go to God's altar, to God who makes me truly happy. I will praise you on the harp, God, my God.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Why am I so discouraged? Why do I feel so sad? I will hope in God; I will praise him because he is the one who saves me—my God!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{44}{\D For the music director. A psalm (maskil) of the sons of Korah.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, we have heard with our own ears—our forefathers have told us—all you did in their times, long ago.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Through your power you drove out the other nations so you could settle our ancestors there; you defeated\FTNT{*}{{\FR 44:2 }{\FT{Literally, “afflicted.”}}} the nations and you sent our ancestors to occupy the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They did not conquer the land using their swords; it was not through their own strength that the victory was won—it was by your strength, your power, and your presence with them, because you loved them.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}God, you are my King; command victories for Jacob!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Only through you can we repel our enemies; only in your name can we defeat our opponents.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I do not trust my bow; I do not have confidence in my sword to save me.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}You are the one who saves us from our enemies; you defeat\FTNT{†}{{\FR 44:7 }{\FT{Or “humiliated.”}}} those who hate us.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}God, we proudly thank you all day long, and praise your name forever. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}But now you have rejected and disgraced us; you no longer accompany our armies.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}You made us run from our enemies, and those who hate us have taken whatever they wanted.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 44:10 }{\FT{Literally, “plundered us.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}You have handed us over like sheep to be slaughtered; you have scattered us among the other nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}You have sold your own people for next to nothing, making no profit on the sale.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}You have made a mockery of us before our neighbors, we are ridiculed and laughed at by those around us.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}You have made us a joke to the other nations; they scornfully shake their heads at us.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}We are humiliated all day long; we hold our heads in shame,


\par }{\Q \VS{16}because of all the insults from the people mocking us, because our vengeful enemies are right in front of us.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}All this has happened to us even though we didn't forget you; we haven't been unfaithful to the promises we made to you.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 44:17 }{\FT{Literally, “covenant.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{18}We have not turned away from you, not in thought, nor in action.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 44:18 }{\FT{Literally, “Our hearts have not turned back and our steps have not turned aside from your way.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Even so, you crushed us, and made us into a jackal's den. You have covered us with the darkness of death.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}If we had forgotten the name of our God, or worshiped other gods,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 44:20 }{\FT{Literally, “spread out our hands to another god.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{21}wouldn't God have been aware of this, because he knows everyone's thoughts?


\par }{\Q \VS{22}But because of you we are killed all day long; we're considered just sheep to be slaughtered.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Lord, wake up! Why are you sleeping? Get up! Don't turn your back on us forever!


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Why do you look away from us and take no notice of our suffering and misery?


\par }{\Q \VS{25}We lie ruined in the dust, our bodies facedown in the dirt.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Stand up! Come and help us! Save us because of your trustworthy love!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{45}{\D For the music director. To the tune “Lilies.” A psalm (maskil) of the sons of Korah. A love song.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 45: }{\FT{The theme is one of a royal wedding.}}}
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I am moved to write about this wonderful subject. Let me share what I have written for the king. What I say comes from the pen of a skilled author.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You are more handsome than anyone else. You always speak graciously, for God has blessed you forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Strap on your sword, mighty warrior, stride out in glory and majesty!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}In your majesty ride out to victory, in the defense of truth, humility, and right, because you are strong and act powerfully.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 45:4 }{\FT{Literally, “Let your right hand teach you fearful deeds.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Your sharp arrows pierce the hearts of your enemies; the nations fall under you.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Your throne comes from God, and lasts forever and ever. The scepter with which you rule is a scepter of fairness.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}You love what is right and hate what is wrong. That is why God, your God, has placed you above everyone else by anointing you with the oil of joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Your robes are perfumed with aloes, myrrh, and cassia; music played on stringed instruments in palaces decorated with ivory makes you happy.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The daughters of kings are among the noblewomen; the queen stands beside you on your right, wearing jewelry made of gold from Ophir.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Listen to what I have to say, daughter;\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 45:10 }{\FT{The psalmist is addressing the queen.}}} please pay attention. Don't pine for your people and your family.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}May the king desire you in your beauty; respect him, for he is your lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The people\FTNT{§}{{\FR 45:12 }{\FT{Literally, “daughter.”}}} of Tyre will come with gifts; rich people will look for your favor.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Inside her preparation room the princess bride looks wonderful in her golden gown.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Wearing her beautiful clothes she is brought to the king, followed by her bridesmaids.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}What a happy, joyful procession enters the king's palace!


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Your sons will take the place of your fathers; as princes you will make them rulers throughout the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Through my words\FTNT{*}{{\FR 45:17 }{\FT{Implied. Clearly the psalmist himself would not live through all generations.}}} you will be famous through all generations, and nations will praise you forever and ever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{46}{\D For the music director by the sons of Korah. According to alamoth, a song.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God is our protection and our strength; always ready to help when troubles come.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}So we will not be afraid though the earth shakes, though the mountains fall into the depths of the sea,


\par }{\Q \VS{3}though the waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble as the waters surge violently! Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}A river flows to bring happiness to those in God's city, the holy place where the Most High lives.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}God is in the midst of the city; it will never fall. God protects it as soon as it is light.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 46:5 }{\FT{That is not to say that the city had no protection at night, but that as soon as there was enough light for an enemy to see to attack, God would protect the city.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Nations are in turmoil, kingdoms collapse. God raises his voice and the earth melts.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob protects us. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Come and see what the Lord has achieved! See the amazing things\FTNT{†}{{\FR 46:8 }{\FT{The word used here is often translated “desolation” but not all God's actions that are described are destructive.}}} he has done on the earth!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He stops wars all over the world. He smashes the bow; he breaks the spear; he sets shields on fire.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Stop fighting! Recognize I am God! I am the ruler of the nations; I am the ruler of the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob protects us. Selah.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{47}{\D For the music director. A psalm of the sons of Korah.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Everyone, clap your hands! Shout with joy to the Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}For the Lord Most High is awe-inspiring; he is the great King of all the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}He subdues other peoples under us; he puts nations under our feet.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}He chose the land for us to own; the proud possession of Jacob's descendants whom he loves. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}God ascends his throne\FTNT{*}{{\FR 47:5 }{\FT{Implied.}}} with a great shout, the Lord is accompanied by the sound of the trumpet.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For God is King of all the earth; sing praises with a psalm!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}God rules over the nations; he sits on his holy throne.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The rulers of the nations gather together with the people of the God of Abraham, for the defenders\FTNT{†}{{\FR 47:9 }{\FT{Literally, “shields.”}}} of the earth belong to God. He is highly honored everywhere.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{48}{\D For the music director. A psalm of the sons of Korah.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord is supreme! He deserves praise in the city of our God on his holy mountain.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Mount Zion is high and beautiful, bringing happiness to all the earth; on the northern side\FTNT{*}{{\FR 48:2 }{\FT{One interpretation is that this refers to the northern extension of Jerusalem that was not originally part of the city captured from the Jebusites. This new northern part was where the Temple and palace of Solomon were built.}}} is the city of the great King.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}God himself is in the city's fortresses; he is recognized as its defender.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Look at what happened when foreign kings joined forces and came to attack the city.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}As soon as they saw it they were astonished and ran away terrified.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They shook all over, and were in agonizing pain like a woman giving birth,


\par }{\Q \VS{7}just as the strong east wind wrecks the ships from Tarshish.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Just as we had heard, but now we have seen the city of the Lord Almighty. This is the city of our God; he makes it secure forever. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}God, we recall your trustworthy love as we worship in the Temple.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}As is fitting for your reputation,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 48:10 }{\FT{Literally, “name.”}}} God, praises to you stretch all around the world. What you do is always right!


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Let the people of Mount Zion be glad; let the people of Judah celebrate because your judgments are always fair!


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Go and take a look at Zion. Count the towers as you walk around.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Inspect the fortifications. Examine the citadels, so you can describe everything to the next generation, telling them:


\par }{\Q \VS{14}“This is who our God is. He is our God forever and ever. He himself will lead us until the very end.”\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 48:14 }{\FT{“End.” There is some debate as to how this psalm ends. Some take the phrase to mean “death,” others “forever,” while still others think it was part of the superscription for the following psalm.}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{49}{\D For the music director. A psalm of the sons of Korah.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Listen to this, everyone! Pay attention, people of the world—


\par }{\Q \VS{2}whether you are highborn or lowborn, rich or poor!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}For what I say is wise, and my thinking is perceptive.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I pay attention to wise sayings; I answer hard questions to a tune on the harp.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Why should I be afraid when trouble comes, when evil enemies surround me?


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They trust in their wealth; they boast about their riches,


\par }{\Q \VS{7}but no one can pay to rescue another from death; no one can pay a ransom to God.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Redemption is beyond price; no one could ever pay enough


\par }{\Q \VS{9}that they could live forever and not face the grave.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Everyone knows that the wise die, those who are foolish and stupid too, leaving what they have to the next generation.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They think\FTNT{*}{{\FR 49:11 }{\FT{Some believe the word used here has been misspelled and translate it as “their graves.”}}} their homes will last forever, that where they live will continue for all generations.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}But human beings, for all their fame, don't understand.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 49:12 }{\FT{“Don't understand” or “don't last a night.”}}} They die, just like the animals.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}This is the way of foolish people, yet those who come after them think they were clever!\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 49:13 }{\FT{The meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain.}}} Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Like sheep they are destined for the grave. Death will be their shepherd. Those who live right will rule over them in the morning.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 49:14 }{\FT{The significance of this verse is not clear.}}} Their bodies will decay in the grave, far from their homes.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}But surely God will rescue me from the power of the grave; he will grab me back. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Don't be disturbed when people become rich, filling their houses with possessions.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}For they won't take anything with them when they die; their wealth will not go down into the grave\FTNT{*}{{\FR 49:17 }{\FT{“Into the grave” implied.}}} with them.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}They congratulate themselves for all they possess—people always praise you when you do well—


\par }{\Q \VS{19}but their destiny is the same as their forefathers: they will never again see the light of day.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Human beings, for all their fame, don't understand, and they die, just like the animals.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{50}{\D A psalm of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord, the Almighty God, speaks! He summons everyone on earth, from the east to the west.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}God shines out of Mount Zion, perfect in beauty.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Our God arrives, and does not stay quiet. Fire flames before him, burning everything up; a violent storm rages around him.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}He summons the heavens above and the earth to witness the judgment of his people.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}“Bring me those who trust in me—those who confirmed the agreement\FTNT{*}{{\FR 50:5 }{\FT{Literally, “covenant,” also verse 16.}}} with me through sacrifice.”


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The heavens declare his decisions are right, for God himself is the judge. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}“My people, listen to what I have to say. I am bringing charges against you, Israel. I am God, your God!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I'm not complaining about your sacrifices or burnt offerings that you offer all the time.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}I do not require bulls from your barns or goats from your pens,


\par }{\Q \VS{10}for I own all the animals of the forest, and the cattle on a thousand hills belong to me.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I know every bird of the mountains; all living things in the fields are mine.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}If I were hungry, I wouldn't tell you, for the earth and everything in it are mine.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Do I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of goats?


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Give an offering of thanks to God; keep the promises you made to the Most High,


\par }{\Q \VS{15}and call on me when you're in trouble. I will rescue you, and you will thank me.”


\par }{\Q \VS{16}But to the wicked God says, “What's the point of mechanically repeating my laws or making empty promises about obeying the agreement?


\par }{\Q \VS{17}You hate my discipline,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 50:17 }{\FT{Or “teaching.”}}} and you toss my words away, leaving them behind you.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}When you see people stealing, you admire them; you associate with adulterers.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}With your mouth you say evil things; you use your tongue to spread lies.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}You sit there and speak against your brother, slandering your own mother's son.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}I kept quiet when you did these things. You thought I was someone just like you. But now I confront you, and bring my charges against you.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Think again, you people who dismiss God, or I will tear you apart, and no one will be able to save you.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}But those who give an offering of thanks honor me, and to those who follow the right I will show them the salvation of God.”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{51}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David. When Nathan the prophet came to him after he had committed adultery with Bathsheba.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please be gracious to me, because of your trustworthy love, because of your infinite kindness\FTNT{*}{{\FR 51:1 }{\FT{The word used here, often translated “compassion” is related to intense feelings of love and pity. It is related to the Hebrew word for “womb.”}}} please wipe away my sins.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Wash away all my guilt; cleanse me from my sin.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I admit my rebellion; my sin always stares me in my face.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I have sinned against you, you alone. I have done evil in your sight. So you are right in what you say, and fair when you judge.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}It's true that I was born guilty—sinful from the time my mother conceived me.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}But you want truth on the inside; you teach me wisdom deep within.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Purify me with hyssop\FTNT{†}{{\FR 51:7 }{\FT{A plant used for cleansing, but this is not a useful image for most today.}}} so I can be clean; wash me so I can be whiter than snow.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Please let me hear joy and happiness again; let the bones you have crushed be glad once more.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Turn your face away from looking at my sins; please wipe away my guilt.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Create a pure mind in me, God, and make me trustworthy again.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Don't expel me from your presence; don't take away your Holy Spirit from me.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Give me back the happiness of your salvation; help me to have a willing nature.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Then I will teach your ways to rebellious people, and these sinners will come back to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}God, please forgive me for the blood I have shed, God of my salvation, and I will sing for joy of your goodness.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Lord, open my lips so I can speak your praise!


\par }{\Q \VS{16}For sacrifices don't make you happy, or I would bring one; burnt offerings aren't what pleases you.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}The “sacrifices” that God wants are on the inside—the brokenness of repentance. God won't reject a broken and sorrowful heart.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Be kind to Zion, help the city; rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Then you will be pleased with sacrifices given in the right spirit, for all kinds of burnt offerings, and bulls sacrificed on your altar once more.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 51:19 }{\FT{Some believe the last two verses are later additions.}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{52}{\D For the music director. A psalm (maskil) of David, concerning the time when Doeg the Edomite went to Saul and told him, “David has gone to the home of Ahimelech.”
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}You great man, why do you boast about the evil things you've done? God's trustworthy love lasts all day long.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 52:1 }{\FT{“God's trustworthy love lasts all day long.” This is the meaning of the Hebrew text but the thought seems out of place here.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You plot to make people suffer; your words cut like a sharp razor, you liar!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You love evil more than good, and telling lies more than speaking the truth. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}You love slanderous words that destroy others, you liar!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}But God will strike you down so hard you'll never get up. He will grab hold of you and drag you from your tent. He will tear you out of the land of the living. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Those who do right will see all this. They will be astonished and laugh, saying,


\par }{\Q \VS{7}“See what happens to those who don't go to God for help but instead rely on their great wealth and strength—which only brings their destruction!”


\par }{\Q \VS{8}But I'm like an olive tree growing strongly in God's house. I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}I will praise you forever, God, for all you have done. In the presence of your trustworthy people, I will place my hope in the kind of person you are,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 52:9 }{\FT{Literally, “in your name.”}}} for you are good.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{53}{\D For the music director. According to Mahalath. A psalm (maskil) of David.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 53: }{\FT{This psalm is almost identical to
}}{\XT{Psalms 14}}{\FT{.}}}
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Only fools tell themselves, “God doesn't exist.” They are completely immoral, they commit terrible sins, not a single one of them does anything good.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}God watches from heaven to see if anyone understands, if anyone wants to come to God.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They have all fallen away, they are totally depraved; none of them does anything good, not even one.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}“Won't these people who do evil ever learn? They consume my people as if they were eating bread, and refuse to pray to me.”\FTNT{†}{{\FR 53:4 }{\FT{These are clearly the words of God so are placed within quotes.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They will become completely terrified, more frightened than they have ever been. God will scatter the bones of those who fight against you; you will defeat\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 53:5 }{\FT{Or “put them to shame.”}}} them because God has rejected them.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}If only God's salvation would come from Zion! When God restores\FTNT{§}{{\FR 53:6 }{\FT{The term used here is often applied to the return from Exile, but here would apply to the blessings the people would receive when they returned to God.}}} his people, the people of Jacob will celebrate, and the people of Israel will be glad.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{54}{\D For the music director. With stringed instruments. A psalm (maskil) of David, concerning the time when the Ziphites came to Saul and told him, “David is hiding among us.”
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, because of your very nature,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 54:1 }{\FT{Literally, “name.”}}} please save me! Vindicate me by your power!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}God, please hear my prayer; listen to what I'm saying.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}For strangers are coming to attack me—violent men who don't care about God are trying to kill me. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But God helps me; the Lord saves my life!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The evil my enemies have done will come back upon them. I depend on you to destroy them.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I will happily offer a sacrifice to you; I will praise the kind of person you are,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 54:6 }{\FT{Literally, “your name.”}}} Lord, for you are good.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For he has saved me from all my troubles; and I have seen those who hated me defeated.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 54:7 }{\FT{“Defeated”: implied. Literally, “with my eye I have looked at those who hate me.”}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{55}{\D For the music director. With stringed instruments. A psalm (maskil) of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please hear my prayer; don't ignore my cry for help!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Please listen, and give me an answer. I'm terribly troubled by my problems! I'm frantic!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}For my enemies are screaming at me; the wicked are intimidating\FTNT{*}{{\FR 55:3 }{\FT{Literally, “pressuring.”}}} me. They rain down suffering on me, angrily assaulting me in their hatred.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}My heart thumps in agony! Terrified, I feel I'm about to die!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I'm in a panic, trembling with fear; feelings of horror wash over me.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I tell myself, If only God would give me wings like a dove so I could fly away and be at peace!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I would fly far away to escape, and stay in the wilderness. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I would hurry to a place to hide, out of the wind, safe from the raging storm.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Confuse them, Lord! Muddle what they're saying, for I see violence and conflict in the city.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}They patrol the city walls day and night, and wickedness and trouble are within the city.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 55:10 }{\FT{This could mean that though the city walls are patrolled, the evil is inside the city; or that violence and conflict are symbolically the ones on patrol, so inevitably wickedness and trouble are within the city as well.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The ones causing destruction are inside the city; frauds and cheats are always on the streets.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The problem\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 55:12 }{\FT{Implied.}}} is that it's not an enemy who mocks me—I could stand that. It's not someone who hates me who insults me—I could avoid them.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}No, it's you, a man just like me, my best friend who I know so well!


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Our friendship was so close. We used to have great talks together as we walked with everyone to the house of God.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}May death come quickly to them; may they go down into the grave alive, because evil finds its home in them.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}As for me, I cry out to God, and the Lord will save me.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I weep and groan morning, noon, and night, and he listens to me.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}He rescues me, keeping me safe and sound from my attackers, because there are so many against me.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}God who has ruled from the beginning will hear me and answer them. Selah. For they refuse to change and don't respect God.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}As for my best friend,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 55:20 }{\FT{Implied.}}} he attacked his friends who had no quarrel with him; he broke the promises he had made to them.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}What he says is as smooth as butter, but inside he plans war; his words are as soothing as oil, but they cut like sharp swords.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Throw your burdens onto the Lord and he will take care of you. He will never allow those who live right to fall.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}But you, God, will bring down murderers and liars, throwing them into the pit of destruction before they have even lived half their lives. As for me, I will trust in you.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{56}{\D For the music director. According to “Dove on Distant Oaks.” A psalm (miktam) of David concerning the time the Philistines captured him in Gath.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please be gracious to me, for people are persecuting me; my attackers fight against me all day long.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}My enemies chase me down all the time—there are many of them, attacking me in their arrogance.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 56:2 }{\FT{The word used here means “height” and it is thought this refers to superiority or arrogance.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}But when I'm afraid, I trust in you.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I thank God for his promises. I trust in God, so why should I be fearful? What can mere human beings\FTNT{†}{{\FR 56:4 }{\FT{Literally, “flesh.”}}} do to me?


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They constantly twist my words against me; they spend all their time thinking of evil things to do to me.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They gather together in their hiding places to keep watch on me, hoping to kill me.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Will they escape when they do so much evil? God, in anger bring these people down!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You've kept track of all my wanderings. You've collected all my tears in your bottle.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 56:8 }{\FT{To record the extent of the psalmist's sorrow.}}} You've kept a record of each one.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Then those who hate me will run away when I call for your help. For I know this: God is for me!


\par }{\Q \VS{10}I thank God for his promises. I thank the Lord for his promises.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I trust in God, so why should I be fearful? What can mere human beings do to me?


\par }{\Q \VS{12}God, I will keep my promises to you. I will give thank offerings to you,


\par }{\Q \VS{13}for you have saved me from death and kept me from falling. Now I walk in the presence of God, in the light that gives life.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{57}{\D For the music director. According to “Do Not Destroy.” A psalm (miktam) of David concerning the time he fled from Saul and hid in the cave.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Please be kind\FTNT{*}{{\FR 57:1 }{\FT{Or “gracious.”
}}} to me, God! Be kind to me because I come to you for protection. I will shelter under the shadow of your wings until the danger is past.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I cry out for help to God Most High, to God who vindicates me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}From heaven he sends his help, and he saves me. He defeats\FTNT{†}{{\FR 57:3 }{\FT{Or “disgraces.”}}} those who persecute me. Selah. God sends me his unfailing love, showing he is completely trustworthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I am surrounded by man-eating lions—I am forced to live with them! Their teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongues are swords.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}God, your greatness is above the highest heavens; and your glory covers the whole earth!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They set a trap to catch me. I was so depressed. They dug a pit on my path but they were the ones who fell into it. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I have confidence in you, God, I have confidence in you. I will sing songs of praise to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I say to myself, “Wake up!” Wake up, harp and lyre! I will wake up the dawn!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}I will thank you among the peoples, Lord; I will sing your praises among the nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Your faithful love reaches to the heavens; your trustworthiness to the clouds.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}God, your greatness is above the highest heavens; and your glory covers the whole earth!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{58}{\D For the music director. According to “Do Not Destroy.” A psalm (miktam) of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}You leaders,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 58:1 }{\FT{The word in the Hebrew is unclear. One interpretation “gods” is surely incorrect.}}} do you really say what is right? Do you judge people fairly?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}No, for in your minds you plan evil. You cause violence everywhere!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The wicked are sinners from birth; from the moment they're born they tell lies.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}They have venom like that of a poisonous snake, and just like a cobra they stop listening,


\par }{\Q \VS{5}refusing to hear the voice of the snake charmers or the spellbinders.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}God, break their teeth, and smash the jaws of these lions, Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}May they vanish like water that flows away; when they shoot their arrows may they miss their mark.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 58:7 }{\FT{The meaning of the second part of this verse is unclear.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}May they be like the slime of snails that dissolves away, like a stillborn child that never saw the light of day.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Before the cooking pot is hot from burning thorns, whether fresh or dry, God will blow them away.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 58:9 }{\FT{The meaning of this verse is unclear.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Those who live right will be happy when they see there is punishment; they will wash their feet in the blood of the wicked.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They will say, “There is definitely a reward for those who live right; there is certainly a God who judges fairly on earth.”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{59}{\D For the music director. According to “Do Not Destroy.” A psalm (miktam) of David, concerning the time Saul sent out soldiers to watch David's house in order to kill him.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Rescue me from my enemies, God! Protect me from those who are attacking me!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Rescue me from these evil people! Save me from these murderers!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}See how they're lying in wait to kill me! Powerful men are gathered against me, Lord, even though I have not sinned or done anything wrong.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 59:3 }{\FT{This could be either some offense against the enemies or against God.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Even though I'm not guilty they hurry to prepare an attack on me. Please stand up, come and help me, and see what's going on.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You are God, the Lord Almighty, God of Israel. Stand up, and punish all the nations. Don't have any mercy on these evil traitors. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}In the evening they return, snarling like dogs as they roam around the city.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}See what evil talk comes pouring out of their mouths! Words sharp as swords, for they say to themselves,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 59:7 }{\FT{Implied.}}} “Who can hear us?”


\par }{\Q \VS{8}But you, Lord, you laugh at them; you pour scorn on all the nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You are my strength! I will look to you, God, for you are the one who protects me.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}In his trustworthy love, God will come and save me. He will show me how my enemies are defeated.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Don't kill them right away, otherwise my people will quickly forget what you have done.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 59:11 }{\FT{Implied—the text simply says “lest my people forget.”}}} By your power make them stagger around and then fall down, Lord our protection.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Let them be caught out by the evil things they say, the words they proudly speak—brought down by their curses and the lies they tell!


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Destroy them in your anger! Destroy them completely! Then everyone will know that God rules in Israel!\FTNT{§}{{\FR 59:13 }{\FT{Literally, “Jacob.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{14}In the evening they return, snarling like dogs as they roam around the city.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}They wander around, looking for things to eat, and howl when they're not satisfied.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}But I will sing of your strength; in the morning I will sing for joy about your trustworthy love. For you have been my protection; my place of safety in my time of trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}You are my strength, I sing praises to you, for you are the one who protects me—the God who shows me his trustworthy love!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{60}{\D For the music director. According to “Lily of the Testimony.” A psalm (miktam) of David, useful for teaching, about the time he fought against Aram-naharaim and Aram-zobah, and then Joab returned and killed 12,000 Edomites in the Valley of Salt.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}You, God, have rejected us! You have broken us; you have been angry with us; but now you have to welcome us back!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 60:1 }{\FT{Literally, “restore.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You have sent earthquakes on our land and split it apart. Now heal the cracks, for the land is still having tremors.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You have been very hard on your people; you gave us wine that made us stagger around.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But you have given those who respect you the banner of truth to unfurl and rally around.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 60:4 }{\FT{The Hebrew is unclear and capable of many interpretations.}}} Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Rescue those you love! Answer us, and save us by your power!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}God has spoken from his Temple: “Triumphantly I divide up Shechem, and portion out the Valley of Succoth.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 60:6 }{\FT{This presumably refers to the dividing up of the country when the Israelites entered the Promised Land.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Both Gilead and Manasseh belong to me. Ephraim is my helmet, and Judah is my scepter.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 60:7 }{\FT{Ephraim was the tribe of many warriors, and synonymous with the northern kingdom, while Judah was the tribe from which the kings came, and symbolized the southern kingdom.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I will treat Moab as my washbasin; I will place my sandal on Edom; I will shout in triumph over Philistia.”\FTNT{*}{{\FR 60:8 }{\FT{These are all symbols of victory and subjugation.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Who will bring me into the fortified city? Who will lead me into Edom?\FTNT{†}{{\FR 60:9 }{\FT{Since it is unlikely that the speaker of these lines is God, it is conjectured that it is now the king that is speaking. The fortified city is probably Sela, the capital of Edom, later called Petra.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Have you rejected us, God? Won't you lead our armies?


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Please give us help against our enemies, for human help is worthless.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 60:11 }{\FT{Literally, “the help of man is vain.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Our strength is in God, and he will crush our enemies.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{61}{\D For the music director. With stringed instruments. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please hear my cry for help; please listen to my prayer.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}From this distant place, far from home, I cry out to you as my courage fails. Take me to a rock high above me where I will be safe,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 61:2 }{\FT{“Where I will be safe”: implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}for you are my protection, a strong tower where my enemies cannot attack me.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Let me live with you\FTNT{†}{{\FR 61:4 }{\FT{“Live with you”: literally, “dwell in your tent.”}}} forever; protect me under the shelter of your wings. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For you, God, have heard the promises I've made. You have given all those who love your character your special blessing.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 61:5 }{\FT{Literally, “you have given an inheritance to those who fear your name.” The “inheritance” was originally linked to the possession of the Promised Land, and then expanded to mean all of God's blessings to his people.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Please give the king many extra years; may his reign last through generations.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}May he always live in your presence; may your trustworthy love and faithfulness protect him.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Then I will always sing praises to you, and every day I will keep my promises to you.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{62}{\D For Jeduthun, the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Only in God do I find peace; my salvation comes from him.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}He is the one who protects me and saves me; he keeps me safe so I will never be in danger.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}How long are you\FTNT{*}{{\FR 62:3 }{\FT{The psalmist now addresses his enemies.}}} going to attack me? All of you against one man! To you I'm just a broken wall, a collapsed fence.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}They plan to throw me down from my high position; they love to tell lies. They say nice things to me, but inside they're cursing me. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Only in God do I find peace; my hope comes from him.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He is the one who protects me and saves me; he keeps me safe so I will not be in danger.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}My salvation and my success\FTNT{†}{{\FR 62:7 }{\FT{Literally, “glory.”}}} come from God alone; God is my security and my protection.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}My people, always trust in him. Pour out all your thoughts to him, for he is the one who looks after us. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Ordinary people are mere breaths, while leaders are just fakes. Put them all together and weigh them on scales and they wouldn't weigh more than air!


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Don't trust in money made by extortion or robbery. Don't be proud of your wealth even if you are successful—don't make money what you live for.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}God has already made it clear—I have heard it many times—power belongs to you, God.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}You show us trustworthy love. You give back to people in return for what they've done.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{63}{\D A psalm of David, when he was in the Judean desert.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, you are my God, I eagerly look for you. I am thirsty for you; all that I am longs for you in this dry, weary, waterless land.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I see you in the Temple; I watch your power and glory.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Your trustworthy love is better than life itself; I will praise you.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I will thank you as long as I live; I lift up my hands as I celebrate your wonderful character.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 63:4 }{\FT{Literally, “to your name.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You satisfy me more than the richest food; I will praise you with joyful songs.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I think of you all night long as I lie on my bed meditating about you.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For you are the one who helps me; I sing happily from under your wings.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I hold on to you; your strong arms lift me up.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Those who are trying to destroy me will go down into the grave.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}They will be killed by the sword; they will become food for jackals.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}But the king will be happy for what God has done. All who follow God\FTNT{†}{{\FR 63:11 }{\FT{“Follow God”: literally, “swear by God.”}}} will praise him, but those who tell lies will be silenced.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{64}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please listen to my complaint.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 64:1 }{\FT{Or “problem.”}}} Protect me because my enemies scare me.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Shelter me from the plots of the wicked, from this evil mob.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}What they say cuts like swords; they fire off poisonous words like arrows.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}They shoot from their hiding places at innocent people—doing this without warning, not afraid of being caught.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They encourage one another to do evil, planning how to secretly trap people, telling themselves, “Nobody will notice.”


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They plot wicked things. “What a great plan we've created!” they say. There are no limits to the depths to which human minds and thoughts can sink.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}But God will shoot them with arrows; all of a sudden they will be wounded.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}What they themselves say will trip them up; people who see them will mock them, shaking their heads at them.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Then everyone will be frightened. They will say that this is the work of God, and they will think about what he has done.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 64:9 }{\FT{Or “They will announce God's works and understand his labor.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Those who are right with the Lord will be happy in him, they will go to him for protection. Those who live right will praise him.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{65}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David. A song.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, you deserve to be praised, and in Zion we will keep our promises to you.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 65:1 }{\FT{Or “a vow to you will be fulfilled in Zion.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You hear our prayers; everyone comes to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Even though we're drowning in our sins and our disobedience, you forgive us.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Happy are those you choose to keep close to you, those who live in your courts! We are delighted with the blessings we receive in your house, your holy Temple!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}In your goodness you answer us through the wonderful things you do, God of our salvation. You can be trusted by everyone on earth, including those sailing distant oceans.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}You made the mountains by your power, for you have great strength.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 65:6 }{\FT{Literally, “you are girded with might.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{7}You calm the raging seas and crashing waves, you silence the noisy shouts of the nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Everyone, even those in distant lands, are amazed by the wonderful things you do, from the east to the west they sing for joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You care for the earth and water it; you make it very productive. God, your river is full of water to grow the grain—this is what you have planned.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}You fill the plowed furrows with water, you soften the ridges; you bless the growing crops.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}You make the high point of the year a wonderful harvest, filling the wagons with good things.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 65:11 }{\FT{Literally, “You crown the year with your bounty; your wagon-tracks drip with fatness.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The pastures in the wilderness grow lush; the hillsides are clothed in bright flowers.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}The meadows are covered with flocks of sheep, and the valleys with fields of grain. Everything triumphantly sings for joy.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{66}{\D For the music director. A song. A psalm.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Everyone on earth, shout for joy to God!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Sing about his marvelous reputation; praise him for his goodness!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Tell God, “What you do is awesome! Your enemies are forced to bow before you because of your power.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Everyone on earth worships you, singing your praises—singing praises because of who you are.”\FTNT{*}{{\FR 66:4 }{\FT{Literally, “your name.”}}} Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Come and see what God has done! What he does for people is truly awesome!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He turned the Red Sea into dry land, and his people walked across through the waters. We celebrated there because of what he did.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He rules forever through his power. He keeps an eye on the nations, watching to make sure no rebels rise up in opposition. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Let all people everywhere bless our God, and loudly sing praises to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He has kept us alive, and he has not let us fall.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}God, you have tested us, refining us like silver.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}You caught us in your net; you placed heavy burdens on our backs.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}You let people ride roughshod over us;\FTNT{†}{{\FR 66:12 }{\FT{The image is of an enemy army overwhelming them.}}} we suffered through fire and flooding, but you brought us to a safe place.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}I will come to your Temple with burnt offerings; I will fulfill my promises to you,


\par }{\Q \VS{14}the promises I made when I was in trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}I will sacrifice burnt offerings to you of fattened livestock—the smoke of the sacrifice of rams, offerings of bulls and goats. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Come and listen, everyone who honors God, and I will tell you all he has done for me.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I called out to him, and praised him with my voice.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}If I had focused my mind on evil,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 66:18 }{\FT{Literally, “If I had seen evil in my heart.” It was believed that it was in the heart that thinking happened.
}}} the Lord would not have listened to me.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}But God did hear me! He listened to what I had to say in my prayer!


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Praise God, who did not disregard my prayer or take his trustworthy love from me.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{67}{\D For the music director. To be accompanied by stringed instruments. A psalm. A song.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}May God be gracious to us and bless us. May he look favorably on us. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}May everyone on earth come to know your ways, your salvation among all people.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}May the people praise you, God; may all the people praise you.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}May they be happy and sing for joy because you judge people fairly, and you guide everyone on earth. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}May the people praise you, God; may all the people praise you.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The earth has produced its crops; and God, our God, has blessed us.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 67:6 }{\FT{Or “May the earth produce its crops; may God, our God, bless us.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{7}God will bless us, and all people everywhere will respect\FTNT{†}{{\FR 67:7 }{\FT{Literally, “fear.”}}} him.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{68}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David. A song.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Stand up, God, and scatter your enemies. Let those who hate him run away from him!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Blow them away as if they were smoke; melt them like beeswax in a fire. Let the wicked die in God's presence.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}But those who are right with God are happy, and they celebrate in God's presence, full of joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Sing praises to God! Sing praises to his wonderful reputation!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 68:4 }{\FT{Literally, “name.”}}} Praise the rider of the clouds—his name is the Lord!\FTNT{†}{{\FR 68:4 }{\FT{Literally, “Yah,” a short form of Yahweh.}}} Be happy in his presence!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}He is a father to the orphans, a protector of widows. This is who God is, who lives in his holy place.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 68:5 }{\FT{“His holy place”—this may be a reference to heaven or the Temple.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}God gives those who are abandoned\FTNT{§}{{\FR 68:6 }{\FT{Or “lonely.”}}} a family to live with. He sets prisoners free with celebration.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 68:6 }{\FT{Or “singing.” This word only occurs once in the Old Testament. It has also been translated as “prosperity.”}}} But those who rebel live in a desert wasteland.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}God, when you led your people out,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 68:7 }{\FT{Referring to the Exodus.}}} when you marched through the desert, Selah,


\par }{\Q \VS{8}the earth quaked, and the heavens shook\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 68:8 }{\FT{Or “poured down rain.”}}} before God, the one of Sinai; before God, the God of Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You sent plenty of rain to water the promised land; refreshing it when it was dry.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 68:9 }{\FT{This line could also be directly applied to the people of Israel, since the “inheritance” was both the land and the people.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Your people settled there, and because of your kindness, God, you looked after the poor. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The Lord gives the command, and a great army of women spread the good news.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The kings of the foreign armies are quick to run away, and the women\FTNT{*}{{\FR 68:12 }{\FT{The women of Israel.}}} who stayed at home divide the plunder!


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Why are you staying at home?\FTNT{†}{{\FR 68:13 }{\FT{The meaning here is uncertain. Literally, “you lie down by the hearthstones (or sheepfolds).”}}} There are ornaments in the shape of a dove with wings of silver and feathers of fine gold to be taken.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 68:13 }{\FT{“To be taken.” Implied. Though the text is not clear it seems that this is related to the plunder mentioned in verse 12.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The Almighty scattered the foreign kings like a snowstorm on Mount Zalmon.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}“Mountain of God,” Mount Bashan, with your many high peaks, Mount Bashan,


\par }{\Q \VS{16}why do you look enviously, mountain with many peaks, at the mountain God chose as his home, where the Lord will live forever?\FTNT{§}{{\FR 68:16 }{\FT{While this verse is complex, it seems to be suggesting that there were those who questioned the superiority of Mount Zion, and that their own mountains (Mount Bashan) were equally acceptable as places for God to dwell and be worshiped. It's interesting to note that even much later this issue of “which mountain” was brought up by the Samaritan woman to Jesus, since the Samaritans identified Mount Gerizim as their holy mountain.
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{17}God's chariots can't be counted; there are thousands and thousands of them. He comes among them from Sinai into his Temple.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}As you ascended to your high throne you led a procession of prisoners. You received gifts from the people, even from those who had rebelled against the home of the Lord God.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}May the Lord be blessed, for every day he carries our burdens.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 68:19 }{\FT{Or “every day he carries us.”}}} God is our salvation. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}For us, God is a God who saves. The Lord God provides our escape from death.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}But God will crush the heads of his enemies, the hairy heads\FTNT{†}{{\FR 68:21 }{\FT{This may refer to the practice of warriors not cutting their hair during times of war.}}} of those who continue to sin.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}The Lord says, “I will drag them down from Bashan; I will drag them up from the depths of the sea,


\par }{\Q \VS{23}so that you may walk in their blood. Even your dogs will have their share of your enemies.”


\par }{\Q \VS{24}People watch your processions, God—the processions of my God and King as they go into the Temple.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}The singers are at the front, the musicians at the back, and in the middle girls playing tambourines.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Praise God, everyone who has come to worship; praise the Lord, everyone who belongs to Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}There is the little tribe of Benjamin, followed by the many leaders from Judah; then come the leaders of Zebulun and Naphtali.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Display your power, God! Reveal your strength, Lord, as you have done for us in the past.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}Because of your Temple in Jerusalem, kings bring tribute to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}Condemn the beasts of the reeds, the bulls and calves!\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 68:30 }{\FT{The meaning of this line is not clear. It may refer to Egypt, and also to other foreign nations.}}} May they be humbled and bring bars of silver in tribute! Scatter the war-loving nations!


\par }{\Q \VS{31}Let Egypt come with bronze gifts;\FTNT{§}{{\FR 68:31 }{\FT{The word only occurs here in the OT. Alternatively it may mean ambassadors, natron, or expensive cloth.}}} let Ethiopia come quickly and hand over their tributes to God!


\par }{\Q \VS{32}Sing to God, kingdoms of the earth, sing praises to the Lord. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}Sing to the rider of the ancient heavens,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 68:33 }{\FT{In other words, the Creator.}}} his strong voice sounding like thunder!


\par }{\Q \VS{34}Let everyone know of God's power: how his majesty extends over Israel, how his strength is revealed in the heavens.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 68:34 }{\FT{Literally, “clouds” as a symbol of heaven above.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{35}How awesome is God in his Temple! The God of Israel gives strength and power to his people! Praise God!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{69}{\D For the music director. To the tune “Lilies.” A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please save me, because the water is up to my neck!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I'm sinking deeper into the mud—there's no solid ground for me to stand. I find myself in deep water; floods wash over me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I'm so tired of screaming out for help my throat is totally raw. My eyes are worn out looking for my God to help me.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Those who hate me for no reason are more than the number of hairs on my head. Many enemies try to destroy me by telling lies. How can I give back what I didn't steal?


\par }{\Q \VS{5}God, you know how foolish I am! My sins are not hidden from you.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Don't let those who trust you be ashamed because of me, Lord God Almighty. Don't let those who follow you be disgraced because of me, God of Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For your sake I put up with the insults; my face shows my embarrassment.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I have become a foreigner to my brother Israelites; a stranger to my very own brothers.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}My devotion for your house is burning me up inside; the insults of those who insulted you have fallen on me.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}I wept and I fasted, but they mocked me;


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I mourned in sackcloth, but they laughed at me.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}People sitting by the town gate gossip about me. I'm the subject of rude songs sung by drunks.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}But my prayer is to you, Lord, believing this is a good time to respond to me. God, in your wonderful trustworthy love, answer me with your sure salvation.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Please rescue me from the mud—don't let me sink! Save me from those who hate me and from drowning in the deep waters!


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Don't let the flood waters wash over me. Don't let the deep waters pull me down. Don't let the grave close over me.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Please answer my prayers, Lord, for you are good and love me with your trustworthy love; because of your kindness, please help me.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Don't turn away from me, your servant. Please answer me quickly because I'm in trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Come here and rescue me; set me free from my enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}You—you know my shame, my disgrace, my humiliation. You see everything my enemies are doing.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Insults have broken my heart—I am so sick there is no cure. I looked for some sympathy, but there was no one! Nobody showed me any compassion.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Instead they gave me bitter\FTNT{*}{{\FR 69:21 }{\FT{Or “poisonous.”}}} herbs to eat and vinegar to drink.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}May the table set before them become a trap for them, a net that catches them, bringing punishment.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 69:22 }{\FT{Following the Septuagint text.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{23}May their eyes become blind so they cannot see, and may their backs always be bent low in dejection.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Pour out your judgment\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 69:24 }{\FT{Literally, “indignation.”}}} on them; chase them down in your fierce anger.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Let the places where they live be deserted. Let their homes be abandoned.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}For they persecute those you have punished, and make it even more painful for those you have disciplined.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Punish them for the evil they have done. Don't acquit them.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 69:27 }{\FT{Literally, this verse reads, “Give guilt to their guilt. Do not let them come to your righteousness.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Blot out their names from the Book of Life. Don't let them be listed with those who do right.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}But I am suffering and in physical pain. God, please save me and keep me safe.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}I will praise God's character\FTNT{*}{{\FR 69:30 }{\FT{Literally, “name.”}}} in song; I will say how incredible he is and how thankful I am.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}The Lord is happier with this than with offering animals as sacrifices: cattle, or bulls with horns and hooves.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}The humble will see this and be happy. May God encourage everyone who comes to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}God hears the poor, and he does not ignore his people who are in prison.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}Praise him heaven and earth, the seas and everything that lives in them!


\par }{\Q \VS{35}For God will save Zion, and rebuild the cities of Judah. They\FTNT{†}{{\FR 69:35 }{\FT{God's people.}}} will live there and own the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}The descendants of those who follow him will inherit the land, and those who love him will live there.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{70}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David. For a memorial.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 70: }{\FT{This psalm is taken from
}}{\XT{Psalms 40}}{\FT{ with a few minor changes.}}}
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, save me! Hurry, Lord, help me!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Please defeat and humiliate the people who are trying to kill me; turn back in disgrace those who want to hurt me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}May they be shocked at their defeat, those who taunted me.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But may everyone who comes to you be happy and glad; may those who love your salvation always say, “God is great!”


\par }{\Q \VS{5}As for me, I am poor and needy. Hurry, God, help me! Save me! Lord, don't wait!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{71}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, you are the one who keeps me safe; please don't disappoint me.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Save me, rescue me, because you always do what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Please listen to me, and save me. Be my rock of protection where I can always go and hide. You gave the command to save me; for you are my rock and fortress.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}My God, rescue me from the power of the wicked, from the clutches of those who are evil and brutal.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For you, Lord God, are my hope. You are the one I have trusted since I was young.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I have depended on you since birth; you have taken care of me\FTNT{*}{{\FR 71:6 }{\FT{“Taken care of me”: the meaning of the Hebrew word is uncertain.}}} from my mother's womb. That's why I'm always praising you!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}My life has been like a miracle to many people, for you have been my powerful protector.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}All day long I am full of praise for you, telling how wonderful you are!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Don't reject me now I'm getting old. When my strength is gone, please don't abandon me.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}For my enemies are talking about me; those who want to kill me are plotting together.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They say, “God has given up on him. Let's go after him because there's no one to save him.”


\par }{\Q \VS{12}God, please don't stay away from me. My God, hurry to help me!


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Defeat my accusers, get rid of them! May those who want to cause me trouble be covered with shame and disgrace!


\par }{\Q \VS{14}As for me, I will go on hoping in you,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 71:14 }{\FT{“In you”: implied.}}} and I will praise you more and more.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}I will talk about your goodness and your salvation every day, even though it's more than I can understand.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}I will come and explain what the Lord has done. I will remind people that you alone do what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}God, you have taught me since I was young, and I still tell others about all the wonderful things you do.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Even though I'm old and gray, please don't abandon me, God. Let me tell the new generation about your power. Let me explain to all who are to come the great things you do.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}God, your trustworthy and true nature\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 71:19 }{\FT{“Trustworthy and true nature”: often translated “righteousness.” The root word comes from the idea of being “straight.” Simply put, God is always straight.}}} is higher than the highest heaven! You have done incredible things! God, who is like you?


\par }{\Q \VS{20}You had me face many troubles and plenty of misery, but you will bring me back to life; you will rise me up from the depths of the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}You will give me even greater prestige, and you will make me happy again.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Then I will praise you on the harp for your trustworthiness, my God. I will sing praises to you on the lyre, Holy One of Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}I will shout for joy as I sing praises to you, for you have redeemed me.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}All day long I will tell about all the good things you have done, for those who tried to cause me misery have been disgraced and humiliated.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{72}{\D A psalm of Solomon.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please give the king fairness, and give the king's son the ability to do what's right.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}May he rightly judge your people, and may he be fair to the poor.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}May the mountains bring peace\FTNT{*}{{\FR 72:3 }{\FT{Or “prosperity.”}}} to the people, and the hills bring goodness.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}May he defend the poor and save their children, may he crush those who oppress them.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}May they respect him\FTNT{†}{{\FR 72:5 }{\FT{Or “you.”}}} as long as the sun and the moon shine above, for all generations.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}May his reign be like rain falling on new grass,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 72:6 }{\FT{Literally, “mown grass.” A period of rain was needed after the first crop was cut in order for the second crop to grow.}}} like showers that water the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}May those who live right prosper under his rule; may there be great prosperity until the moon is no more.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}May he rule from sea to sea, from the river to the ends of the earth.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 72:8 }{\FT{From sea to sea probably refers to the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea (or Red Sea); the river to the Euphrates.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Desert tribes will kneel before him; and his enemies will bite the dust.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The kings of Tarshish and the islands will bring him tribute; the kings of Sheba and Seba will present him with gifts.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Every king will bow down to him; every nation will serve him.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}He will help the poor when they cry out to him, and help those who are suffering that have no one to support them.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}He has pity on the poor and needy—he saves their lives!


\par }{\Q \VS{14}He rescues them from violence and oppression, for their lives mean so much to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}May he live long! May the gold from Sheba be given to him. May people always pray for him and bless him all day long.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}May there be plenty of grain in the land, even growing on mountain-tops. May the fruit on the trees sway like the trees of Lebanon. May the people in the city flourish like grass in a field.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}May his fame live forever, may it last as long as the sun. May all nations be blessed through him, and may they praise him.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel, who is the only one who can do such fantastic things!

\VS{19}Praise his wonderful nature forever! May the whole world be full of his glory! Amen and amen!


\par }{\Q \VS{20}(This is the end of the psalms of David, son of Jesse.)\FTNT{*}{{\FR 72:20 }{\FT{It is thought that this is an editorial comment that concludes the second book of Psalms (42-72).}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{73}{\D A psalm of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Truly God is good to Israel, to those whose minds\FTNT{*}{{\FR 73:1 }{\FT{Literally, “hearts.” In Hebrew understanding the heart was where thinking was done.}}} are pure.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}But I was stumbling, my feet were starting to slide,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 73:2 }{\FT{The psalmist is indicating he was losing faith.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}because I was jealous of self-important people—I saw how well the wicked were doing.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}They don't ever seem to get sick; they are strong and healthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They don't have problems like other people; they don't get hit by disasters like everybody else.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They wear their pride like a necklace; they clothe themselves with violence.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Their eyes bulge out because they're so fat; their minds are full of selfish vanity.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 73:7 }{\FT{Or “from their evil hearts pours out iniquity.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}They mock people, and speak maliciously; they arrogantly threaten cruelty.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}They talk irreverently against heaven above, and defame people here on earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}As a result people turn to them and drink in everything they say.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 73:10 }{\FT{The Hebrew text is hard to understand: “Therefore he brings back his people here and abundant waters are drained by them.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}“God won't find out,” they say. “The Most High doesn't even know what's going on!”


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Look at these wicked people! They don't have a care in the world, and they're always making money!


\par }{\Q \VS{13}It's been pointless to keep my mind pure and my hands clean.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}I'm cursed with suffering all day long; every morning I'm punished.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}If I'd talked like this to others,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 73:15 }{\FT{Referring back to what the wicked said in verse 11.}}} I would have betrayed your people.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}So I thought about it and tried to understand,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 73:16 }{\FT{The psalmist is trying to understand why the wicked prosper.}}} but it looked like a lot of hard work to me—


\par }{\Q \VS{17}until I went into God's Temple. Then I understood what happens to the wicked in the end.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}For you send them on a slippery path; you throw them down to destruction.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}How quickly they're destroyed! They come to a terrifying end.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Like waking up from a dream, Lord—when you get up you will forget all about them!


\par }{\Q \VS{21}At that time my thoughts were bitter. I felt like I had been stabbed.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}I was stupid and ignorant. I was like a brute beast to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Yet I'm always with you; you hold me by the hand.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}You tell me what to do; and ultimately you will welcome me in glory.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Who is there in heaven for me except you? And I want nothing on earth except you.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}My body and my mind may fail, but God is the foundation of my life. He is mine forever!


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Those people who are far from God will die. You destroy all those unfaithful to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}But I love to stay close to God! I have chosen the Lord God to protect me. I will share all that you have done.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{74}{\D A psalm (maskil) of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, why have you rejected us? Is it forever? Why does your anger burn so hot against the sheep of your own field?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Remember the people you made your own long ago, the tribe you redeemed and made your own. Remember too Mount Zion, the place where you live.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Come and walk through the complete devastation.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 74:3 }{\FT{Of Jerusalem.}}} The enemy has totally destroyed your Temple.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}The enemy shouted in triumph right where you met with us.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 74:4 }{\FT{Referring to the Temple.}}} There they set up their war banners as signs of their victory.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They acted like men chopping down a forest with axes.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}With axes and hammers they smashed in the carved wooden panels.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Then they set fire to your Temple, burning it to the ground. They defiled the place where you live, the place that bears your name.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}They said to themselves, “Let's destroy it all!” So they burned down every place where God was worshiped throughout the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}We no longer see any signs.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 74:9 }{\FT{Generally taken to mean miraculous signs from God.
}}} There are no prophets left. And no one among us knows how long this will last.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}How long will the enemy ridicule you, God? Will they insult your character\FTNT{§}{{\FR 74:10 }{\FT{Literally, “name.”}}} forever?


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Why do you hold back from doing something? Take action and destroy them!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 74:11 }{\FT{The Hebrew imagery here needs some interpretation. Literally, “Why do you hold back your hand? And your right hand from your bosom consume.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{12}But you, God, are our\FTNT{†}{{\FR 74:12 }{\FT{Hebrew has “my.”}}} king from long ago. You have saved us many times in the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}You were the one\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 74:13 }{\FT{The personal pronoun is emphasized here and in subsequent verses. It may be to identify that it was the true God of Creation who did these things, in contrast to similar stories that gave credit to pagan gods.
}}} who split apart the sea by your strength; you broke the heads of the sea monsters.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}You were the one who crushed the heads of Leviathan,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 74:14 }{\FT{A sea monster also mentioned in Job.}}} and you gave its body to the desert animals to eat.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}You were the one who made springs and rivers flow with water. You made permanent rivers dry up.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}You created the day, and also the night; you made the moon\FTNT{*}{{\FR 74:16 }{\FT{Literally, “luminary,” this may also include light from the stars.
}}} and the sun.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}You set the boundaries of the earth;\FTNT{†}{{\FR 74:17 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{Genesis 1:9-10}}{\FT{.}}} you made summer and winter.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}So keep in mind how the enemy ridiculed you, Lord, and how irreverent people insulted your reputation.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Don't let wild animals kill your turtledoves!\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 74:19 }{\FT{The people of Israel are compared to doves in their meekness and inability to defend themselves.}}} Don't abandon your people forever!


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Remember your promises in the agreement,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 74:20 }{\FT{Literally, “covenant.”
}}} because the land is full of dark places and violence.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Don't let those who suffer be mistreated again. Let the poor and needy praise you for you who are.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Stand up, God, and plead your case. Don't forget how these foolish people insulted you all the time.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Don't ignore what your enemies have said, for their loud accusations against you are getting worse and worse!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{75}{\D For the music director. A psalm of Asaph. According to “Do Not Destroy.” A song.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}We thank you, God, we thank you because you are close beside us.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 75:1 }{\FT{“Close beside us,” literally, “your name is near.”}}} People tell about the wonderful things you have done.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}God says, “When the time I have decided comes, I will judge fairly.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}When the earth quakes, and all its inhabitants tremble, I am the one who holds it steady.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 75:3 }{\FT{Literally, “hold firm its pillars.”}}} Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}To those who boast I say, ‘Don't boast!’ I tell the wicked, ‘Don't be proud!’\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 75:4 }{\FT{“Don't be proud”: literally, “Don't lift up the horn.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}No, don't be proud and arrogant, insulting heaven.”\FTNT{§}{{\FR 75:5 }{\FT{The Hebrew expressions need to be recast. Literally, the text says “You must not lift up on high your horn; you must not speak with an arrogant neck.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}For no one, from the east to the west, or from the wilderness, should think so highly of themselves.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}God is the one who decides—who he will bring down and who he will lift up.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}For the Lord has a cup in his hand, full of bubbling wine mixed with spices. He pours it out,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 75:8 }{\FT{In judgment.}}} and all the wicked drink it deeply, down to the last drop.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}But I will speak about you forever. I will sing praises to the God of Jacob.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}For God says, “I will break the power of the wicked; but I will give my support to those who do what is good.”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{76}{\D For the music director. To be accompanied by stringed instruments. A psalm of Asaph. A song.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God is famous in Judah; his reputation is great throughout Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}He lives in Jerusalem; his home is in Zion.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}There he broke the flaming arrows, the shields, the swords, and the weapons of war. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}You shine with light; you are more majestic than the everlasting\FTNT{*}{{\FR 76:4 }{\FT{Septuagint reading. Hebrew has “mountains of prey.”}}} mountains.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Our most courageous enemies have been plundered. They sleep the sleep of death. Even the strongest of them could not raise a hand against us.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}At your command, God of Jacob, both horse and rider fell down dead.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}You are terrifying—who can stand before you when you are angry?


\par }{\Q \VS{8}From heaven you announced judgment. Everyone on earth was afraid and stood still,


\par }{\Q \VS{9}when you stood up to judge, to save the oppressed people of the earth. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Even human anger against you makes you look glorious, for you wear it alike a crown.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 76:10 }{\FT{The Hebrew text is unclear. The interpretation followed here is that human hostility to God ends up showing what he is truly like in the way that he deals with it.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Make your promises to God and be sure to keep them. Everyone bring gifts to the awe-inspiring one.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}For he humbles proud leaders; he terrifies the kings of the earth.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{77}{\D For Jeduthun, the music director. A psalm of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I cry out to God for help—I even shout. If only he would listen to me!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}When I was in trouble I prayed to the Lord. All night long I stretched out my hands to him in prayer but nothing brought me any comfort.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I thought about God, groaning loudly; I meditated on him, but I was discouraged. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}You stop me going to sleep;\FTNT{*}{{\FR 77:4 }{\FT{Literally, “you seize my eyelids.”}}} I'm so upset I can't even talk.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I think of the old days, years ago.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I remember the songs I sang in the night. I meditate and ask myself:


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Has the Lord given up on me\FTNT{†}{{\FR 77:7 }{\FT{“On me.” No object is given in these verses—it could also be “us” or “the people.”}}} forever? Won't he ever be pleased with me again?


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Has his trustworthy love disappeared forever? Have his promises permanently ended?


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Has God forgotten to be kind? Has he angrily slammed the door shut on his compassion? Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Then I said, “This is what hurts me the most: the Most High doesn't treat me the way he used to.”\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 77:10 }{\FT{Literally, “And I said, ‘This is my wound: the right hand of the Most High has changed.’ ”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I remember what you have done, Lord; I remember all the wonderful things you did long ago.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}I will think about all you have accomplished; I will think deeply about how you have acted.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}God, your ways are holy; is any god as great as you?


\par }{\Q \VS{14}You are the God who does wonderful things! You have revealed your power to the nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Through your strength you saved your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}When the waters saw you, God, when they looked they trembled! Yes, they shook down to the very depths!\FTNT{§}{{\FR 77:16 }{\FT{The word used here relates to the deep mentioned in
}}{\XT{Genesis 1:2}}{\FT{. The image also recalls the parting of the Red Sea during the Exodus, an allusion confirmed in verse 20.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{17}The clouds poured rain down; the skies crashed with thunder; your lightning flew like arrows.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Your thunder rumbled from the whirlwind; lightning flashes lit up the world; the earth quaked and shook.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Your way led through the sea; your path passed through the deep sea; yet your footprints were invisible.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}You led your people like a flock, shepherded by Moses and Aaron.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{78}{\D A psalm (maskil) of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Listen to what I have to teach you, my people; hear what I have to say.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I will tell you wise sayings;\FTNT{*}{{\FR 78:2 }{\FT{Or “proverbs.”}}} I will explain mysteries from the past


\par }{\Q \VS{3}that we have heard before and reflected on; stories our forefathers passed down to us.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}We will not keep them from our children; we will tell the next generation about God's marvelous actions—about his power and the amazing things he has done.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}He gave his laws to the descendants of Jacob; his instructions to the people of Israel. He commanded our forefathers to teach them to their children,


\par }{\Q \VS{6}so that the next generation—children yet to be born—would understand and grow up to teach their children.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}In this way they should place their trust in God and not forget what God has done, and keep his commandments.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Then they would not be like their forefathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation that was untrustworthy and unfaithful.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The soldiers of Ephraim,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 78:9 }{\FT{Ephraim is often used as a term for the whole northern kingdom.}}} though armed with bows, ran away on the day of battle.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}They did not keep God's agreement, and refused to follow his laws.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They ignored\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 78:11 }{\FT{Literally, “forgot,” but here it means more than simply poor memory.
}}} what he had done, and the amazing things he had shown them—


\par }{\Q \VS{12}the miracles he had performed for their forefathers near Zoan\FTNT{§}{{\FR 78:12 }{\FT{Identified as the city of Rameses (see
}}{\XT{Exodus 1:11}}{\FT{).}}} in Egypt.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}He split the sea in two and led them through, making the water stand like walls on either side.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 78:13 }{\FT{“On either side”: implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{14}He led them with a cloud by day, and by night with a light of fire.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}He split open rocks in the desert to give his people plenty to drink, water as deep as the ocean.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}He made streams flow from the stone; water rushing down like rivers!


\par }{\Q \VS{17}But they repeatedly sinned against him, rebelling against the Most High in the desert.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}They deliberately provoked God by demanding the foods they longed for.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}They insulted God by saying, “Can God provide food\FTNT{†}{{\FR 78:19 }{\FT{Literally, “set a table.”}}} here in the desert?


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Yes, he can strike a rock so that water gushes out like flowing rivers, but can he give us bread? Can he supply his people with meat?”


\par }{\Q \VS{21}When he heard this, the Lord became very angry, burning like fire against the descendants of Jacob, furious with the people of Israel,


\par }{\Q \VS{22}for they didn't believe in God and didn't trust him to take care of them.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Even so he commanded the skies above and the doors of heaven to open,


\par }{\Q \VS{24}and he made manna rain down on them to eat, giving them bread from heaven.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Human beings ate the bread of angels; he sent them more than enough food.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}He sent the east wind blowing across the sky; by his power he drove the south wind.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 78:26 }{\FT{A reference to the miraculous arrival of quail (}}{\XT{Numbers 11:31}}{\FT{).}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{27}He rained down meat on them as plentiful as dust; birds as numerous as sand on a beach.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}He made them fall right in the middle of their camp, all around where they were living.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}They ate until they were full. He gave them the food they longed for.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}But before they satisfied their appetite, while the meat was still in their mouths,


\par }{\Q \VS{31}God became angry with them and he killed their strongest men, striking them down in the prime of life.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}Despite all this they went right on sinning. Despite the miracles, they refused to trust him.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}So he snuffed out their futile lives, bringing them to an end in terror.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}When he began killing them, the rest came back to God in repentance, praying to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}They remembered that God was their rock, that God Most High was their Savior.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}They flattered him by what they told him, but they were only lying.


\par }{\Q \VS{37}Deep down they were not sincere, and did not keep the agreement\FTNT{§}{{\FR 78:37 }{\FT{Or “covenant.”}}} they had with him.


\par }{\Q \VS{38}But being compassionate he pardoned their guilt and did not destroy all of them. He often held back his anger—he did not pour out all his fury.


\par }{\Q \VS{39}He remembered their mortality—that they were like a puff of wind that would not return.


\par }{\Q \VS{40}How often they rebelled against him in the wilderness, giving him grief in the desert!


\par }{\Q \VS{41}Again and again they provoked God, causing pain to the Holy One of Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{42}They did not remember his strength when he rescued them from their oppressors,


\par }{\Q \VS{43}performing miracles in Egypt, doing wonderful things on the plain of Zoan.


\par }{\Q \VS{44}There he turned their\FTNT{*}{{\FR 78:44 }{\FT{“Their”—referring to the Egyptians.}}} rivers and their streams into blood so that no one could drink from them.


\par }{\Q \VS{45}He sent flies among them to destroy\FTNT{†}{{\FR 78:45 }{\FT{Literally, “consume” but it is unlikely that flies could be seen as eating human beings.}}} them, and frogs to ruin everything.


\par }{\Q \VS{46}He gave their crops to locusts; everything they worked had for was taken by locusts.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 78:46 }{\FT{Two different words are used for “locusts.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{47}He destroyed their vines with hail, and their fig trees with freezing rain.


\par }{\Q \VS{48}He handed over their cattle to hail and their flocks to lightning bolts.


\par }{\Q \VS{49}He poured out on them his fierce anger—rage and hostility and anguish—sending a band of destroying angels against them.


\par }{\Q \VS{50}He sent his unrestrained anger against them; he did not spare them from death, handing them over to the plague.


\par }{\Q \VS{51}He struck down all the firstborn of Egypt, the first to be conceived in the tents of Ham.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 78:51 }{\FT{Ham—referring to Egypt.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{52}But he led out his people like sheep, and guided them like a flock in the wilderness.


\par }{\Q \VS{53}He led them to safety, and they were not afraid. He drowned their enemies in the sea.


\par }{\Q \VS{54}He brought them to the border of his holy land, to this mountainous land that he had conquered for them.


\par }{\Q \VS{55}He drove out the heathen nations before them. He divided up the land for them to own. He settled the tribes of Israel in their tents.


\par }{\Q \VS{56}But they provoked God Most High, rebelling against him. They did not follow what he had told them.


\par }{\Q \VS{57}Just like their forefathers they turned away from God and were unfaithful to him, as twisted as a defective bow.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 78:57 }{\FT{“Defective bow”—a bow that could not shoot arrows straight.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{58}They made him angry with their pagan high places of worship; they made him jealous with their idols.


\par }{\Q \VS{59}When God heard their worship he became furious and he totally rejected Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{60}He abandoned his place at Shiloh, the Tabernacle where he lived among the people.


\par }{\Q \VS{61}He surrendered the Ark of his power, allowing it to be captured; handing it over into enemy hands.


\par }{\Q \VS{62}He handed over his people to be slaughtered by the sword; he was furious with his chosen people.


\par }{\Q \VS{63}Their young men were destroyed by fire; their young women had no wedding songs.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 78:63 }{\FT{Literally, “were not praised.” Either that the men were dead so they could not marry, or they were killed themselves.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{64}Their priests were killed by the sword; their widows were unable to mourn.


\par }{\Q \VS{65}Then the Lord woke up as if from sleep, as a warrior sobering up from drinking wine.


\par }{\Q \VS{66}He defeated his enemies, striking them on the back, causing them everlasting shame.


\par }{\Q \VS{67}He rejected the descendants of Joseph, and did not choose the tribe of Ephraim.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 78:67 }{\FT{This is a reference to the Ark once it had been returned.
}}{\XT{1 Samuel 6}}{\FT{;
}}{\XT{2 Samuel 6}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{68}Instead he chose the tribe of Judah, and Mount Zion which he loves.


\par }{\Q \VS{69}There he built his sanctuary, high like the heavens, on earth that he made to last forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{70}He chose his servant David, taking him from the sheep pens,


\par }{\Q \VS{71}taking him from caring for the sheep and lambs to be a shepherd to the descendants of Jacob—God's special people, Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{72}Like a shepherd, he took care of them with sincere devotion, leading them with skillful hands.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{79}{\D A psalm of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, heathen nations have invaded your land. They have defiled your holy Temple. They have turned Jerusalem into heaps of rubble.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}They have given the dead bodies of your servants as food to the birds of the air, the flesh of your faithful people to the beasts of the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They have poured out the blood of Jerusalem's people like water all through the city; no one remains to bury the dead.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}We have been made a mockery before our neighbors, ridiculed and laughed at by those around us.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}How long, Lord? Will you be angry with us forever? Will your jealousy always burn like fire?


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Pour out your anger on the heathen nations that don't know you, and on those kingdoms that don't worship you!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For they have destroyed the descendants of Jacob, and turned our country into a wasteland.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Don't hold the sins of our forefathers against us! Come to us quickly for we desperately need your compassion.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Help us, God of our salvation, because of your wonderful character! Save us and forgive us our sins because that's the kind of person you are!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 79:9 }{\FT{Literally, “for your name's sake.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Why should the heathen nations be able to say, “Where is their God?” May they experience your punishment for shedding the blood of your servants, and may we see it.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Listen to the groans of the prisoners; with your great power save those condemned to die.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Pay each of these neighbors back seven times for the scorn and ridicule they directed against you, Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Then we your people, the flock of your pasture, will praise you forever. We will thank you for all generations to come.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{80}{\D For the music director. A psalm of Asaph. To the tune “Lilies of the Covenant.”
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Please hear us, Shepherd of Israel, you who lead the descendants of Joseph like a flock. You who sit on your throne above the cherubim, shine out


\par }{\Q \VS{2}in the presence of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh. Gather together your power and come to save us!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}God, please restore us! Let your face shine on us so we can be saved.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Lord God Almighty, how long will you be angry with the prayers of your people?


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You fed them with the bread of tears, and gave them a full bowl\FTNT{*}{{\FR 80:5 }{\FT{Literally, “full measure.”}}} of tears to drink.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}You turn us into victims our neighbors fight over; our enemies mock us.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}God Almighty, please restore us! Let your face shine on us so we can be saved!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You carried us out of Egypt like a vine. You drove out the heathen nations, and then you planted the vine.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You prepared the ground for the vine. It took root and filled the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The mountains were covered by its shade; its branches covered the great cedars.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}It sent its branches as far west as the Mediterranean Sea, and its shoots as far east as the Euphrates River.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}So why have you broken down the walls that protect it\FTNT{†}{{\FR 80:12 }{\FT{“That protect it”: implied.}}} so that everyone who passes by can steal its fruit?


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Wild pigs from the forest eat it, wild animals feed on it.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}God Almighty, please return to us! Look down from heaven and see what's happening to us! Come and care for this vine


\par }{\Q \VS{15}that you planted yourself, this son that you brought up yourself.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}We, your vine, have been chopped down and burned. May those who did this\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 80:16 }{\FT{Implied.}}} die when you glare at them.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Protect the man who stands beside you; strengthen the son you have chosen.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Then we will not turn away from you. Revive us so we can pray to you.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 80:18 }{\FT{Literally, “call on your name.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Lord God Almighty, please restore us! Let your face shine on us so we can be saved.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{81}{\D For the music director. On the gittith. A psalm of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Sing aloud to God our strength; shout for joy to the God of Jacob.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Start the song! Play the tambourine, sweet-sounding lyre, and harp.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Blow the trumpet at the new moon, and at full moon, to begin our festivals,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}for this is a rule for Israel, a regulation of the God of Jacob.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}God made this statute for Joseph when he opposed the land of Egypt. I heard a voice I didn't know, saying:\FTNT{*}{{\FR 81:5 }{\FT{Meaning unclear. Literally, “I hear lips I do not know.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}“I took the load from your shoulders; I freed your hands from carrying heavy baskets.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}In your suffering you cried out to me, and I saved you. I answered you from the thundercloud. I tested you at the waters of Meribah.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 81:7 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{Exodus 17}}{\FT{.}}} Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}My people, listen to my warnings! Israel, please listen to me!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}There must not be a strange god among you; you must never bow down to foreign gods and worship them.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}I am the Lord your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide and I will fill it.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 81:10 }{\FT{In other words God will supply all their needs.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}But my people didn't listen to me. Israel didn't want anything to do with me.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}So I sent them away to follow their stubborn thinking, living as they chose.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}If only my people would listen to me; if only Israel would follow my ways!


\par }{\Q \VS{14}It wouldn't take me long to conquer their enemies, to strike down their foes.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Those who hate the Lord would cringe before him, forever doomed.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}But I would feed you the best wheat and satisfy you with honey from the rock.”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{82}{\D A psalm of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God stands in the midst of his great assembly to judge among the gods.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 82:1 }{\FT{The word used here can mean “gods,” “heavenly beings,” or perhaps more likely here in the context, the “judges of Israel” (used in this sense in
}}{\XT{Exodus 21:6}}{\FT{ and
}}{\XT{Exodus 22:8-9}}{\FT{).
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}How long will you make unfair judgments and show favoritism to the wicked? Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Defend the poor and orphans; support the rights of those who are oppressed and suffering.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Rescue the poor and those unable to help themselves; save them from the clutches of evil people.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They don't have any wisdom; they live in the dark; the foundations of the earth are shaken.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I say, “You are gods; all of you are children of the Most High.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}But you will die like any human being, you will fall like any other leader.”


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Stand up, Lord, and judge the earth, for all the nations belong to you.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{83}{\D A song. A psalm of Asaph.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, please do not stay silent! You can't remain unmoved! God, you must not keep quiet!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Can't you hear the roars of your enemies? Can't you see how those who hate you are defiantly lifting up their heads?


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They invent cunning plans to conspire against your people; they plot against those you treasure.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}They say, “Come on! Let's destroy them as a nation so the name ‘Israel’ will be completely forgotten.”


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They all agree in their conspiracy; they've made a treaty together to attack you—


\par }{\Q \VS{6}the people of Edom, the Ishmaelites, Moab, and the Hagirites;


\par }{\Q \VS{7}the people of Gebal and Ammon and Amalek, Philistia, and the inhabitants of Tyre.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Assyria too has joined them, allied with the descendants of Lot. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Do to them what you did to Midian, what you did to Sisera and Jabin\FTNT{*}{{\FR 83:9 }{\FT{Sisera and Jabin: see
}}{\XT{Judges 4}}{\FT{.}}} at the Kishon River.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}They were destroyed at Endor and became like manure to fertilize the ground.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Make their leaders like Oreb and Zeeb; all their rulers like Zebah and Zalmunna,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 83:11 }{\FT{Oreb and Zeeb; Zebah and Zalmunna: see
}}{\XT{Judges 6}}{\FT{ and
}}{\XT{Judges 7}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{12}for they said, “Let's take the pastures of God for ourselves!”


\par }{\Q \VS{13}My God, make them like whirling tumbleweeds, chaff blown away by the wind.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Just like fire that burns the forest, a flame that sets fire to the mountains,


\par }{\Q \VS{15}in the same way chase them down with your storm, terrify them with your whirlwind.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Shame them in defeat\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 83:16 }{\FT{Literally, “fill their faces with shame.”}}} so that they come to you, Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Make them ashamed, terrify them forever so that they die in disgrace.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Let them understand that you alone, called the Lord, are the Most High who rules over all the earth.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{84}{\D For the music director. A psalm of the descendants of Korah. On the gittith.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}How wonderful is the place where you live, Lord Almighty!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I long, I ache, to be in the courts\FTNT{*}{{\FR 84:2 }{\FT{Meaning the Temple.}}} of the Lord. My mind and my body sing for joy to the living God.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Even a sparrow finds a home there, and a swallow builds a nest for herself where she can raise her chicks near to your altars, Lord Almighty, my king and my God.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}How happy are those who live in your house—they are always praising you! Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}How happy are those whose strength is in you, those who are determined to make a pilgrimage.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}As they walk through the Valley of Tears\FTNT{†}{{\FR 84:6 }{\FT{Septuagint reading.}}} it becomes a spring of water; autumn rains cover it with pools.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}They go from strength to strength, and each one will appear before God in Jerusalem.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Lord God Almighty, please hear my prayer; please listen, God of Jacob. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Please God, look at our defender, look at the face of your anointed one.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}One day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else. I'd rather stand as a doorkeeper in the house of my God than live comfortably in the homes of the wicked.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}For the Lord God is our sun and shield, and he gives us grace and honor. The Lord doesn't hold back anything good from those who do right.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Lord Almighty, how happy are those who trust in you.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{85}{\D For the music director. A psalm of the descendants of Korah
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, you have shown your kindness to your land; you have restored Jacob's prosperity.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 85:1 }{\FT{From the context is appears this psalm was written after the Babylonian captivity.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You took away your people's guilt; you forgave all their sins. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You took back your fury; you turned away from your fierce anger.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Bring us back to you, God of our salvation! Take away your anger towards us.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Are you going to be furious with us forever? Will you stay angry with us for all future generations?


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Won't you restore our lives so your people can find happiness in you?


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Show us your trustworthy love, Lord! Give us your salvation!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Let me hear what God has to say. God speaks peace to his people, to those who trust in him. But they must not return to their foolish ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Truly God's salvation is with those who do as he says. His glorious presence will live with us in our land.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Trustworthiness and faithful love join together; goodness and peace have kissed each other.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}What is true grows up from the earth; what is right looks down from heaven.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The Lord will certainly give us all that is good, and our land will produce fine crops.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Truth and right go ahead of him to prepare a path for him to walk on.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{86}{\D A prayer of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Please listen to me, Lord! Please answer me, for I am weak and really need your help!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Don't let me die, for I am faithful to you. Save me, for I am your servant and I trust in you. You are my God.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Be kind to me, Lord, for I call out to you all day long.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Make me happy, Lord, for I've dedicated my life to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For you, Lord, are good; you are forgiving and full of trustworthy love for all who come to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Lord, please listen to my prayer. Hear my call for help.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}When I'm in trouble I cry out to you because I know you will answer me.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}There's no one like you among the “gods,” Lord. No one can do the things you do.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You created all the nations, and they will come and bow down before you, Lord. They will declare how wonderful you are.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}For you are great, and do wonderful things! Only you are God.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Lord, please teach me your way, so I can depend on your trustworthiness. Make me single-minded, so I can consistently honor the kind of person you are.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Lord my God, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will praise your character forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}For your trustworthy love for me is so great; you have saved me from death.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 86:13 }{\FT{“From death”: literally, “from the depths of Sheol.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{14}God, arrogant people are attacking me, vicious people are trying to kill me. To them you count for nothing.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to become angry, full of trustworthy love and faithfulness.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Turn to me, have mercy on me. Give me your strength, your servant; save the son of your servant-girl.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Show me a sign that you approve of me! Those who hate me will see it, and they will be ashamed because you, Lord, have helped me.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{87}{\D A song. A psalm of the descendants of Korah.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord founded the city on his holy mountain.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Jerusalem is the city that the Lord loves more than any other city in Israel.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 87:2 }{\FT{“Israel”: literally, Jacob.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Many wonderful things are said of you, city of God! Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I mention Egypt\FTNT{†}{{\FR 87:4 }{\FT{Literally, “Rahab.”}}} and Babylon as those who know me, and in addition Philistia, Tyre, and Ethiopia—“this man was born there.”\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 87:4 }{\FT{The meaning of this verse is debated. What it seems to be saying is that despite the patriotism for each country/city mentioned, the best is to be born in Jerusalem. (See following verse.)}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}It will be said concerning Jerusalem, “Everyone was born there,”\FTNT{§}{{\FR 87:5 }{\FT{In other words, everyone will have the right to citizenship in Jerusalem.}}} and the Most High will make it secure.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}When the Lord registers the nations, he will write, “They were born there.”\FTNT{*}{{\FR 87:6 }{\FT{In Jerusalem.}}} Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Singers and dancers alike say, “Living here I am at home.”\FTNT{†}{{\FR 87:7 }{\FT{Literally, “All of my springs are in you.”}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{88}{\D A song. A psalm of the descendants of Korah. For the music director. To the tune “Mahalath Leannoth.” A maskil by Heman the Ezrahite
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, God of my salvation, I cry out to you day and night.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Please listen to my prayer; hear my words as I plead with you.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}My life is full of troubles, and my death is approaching.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 88:3 }{\FT{Literally, “my life reaches out to Sheol.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I'm counted among the dying; a man with no strength.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I am abandoned among the dead, lying like a corpse in the grave, forgotten and beyond your care.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}You have placed me in a deep pit, in the depths of darkness.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Your hostility crushes me; you are drowning me under your crashing waves. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You have made my friends avoid me by making me look repulsive to them. I'm trapped, I can't go out.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 88:8 }{\FT{Perhaps because he is regarded as unclean.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}I've cried my eyes out begging you every day for your help, Lord, holding out my hands to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Do you do miracles among the dead? Do the dead stand up to praise you? Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Your faithful love—is it mentioned in the grave? Your trustworthiness—is it discussed in the place of destruction?\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 88:11 }{\FT{“Place of destruction”: literally, “Abaddon.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Are the wonderful things you do known in the darkness? Is your goodness known in the land of forgetfulness?


\par }{\Q \VS{13}But I cry out to you for help; every morning I pray to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Lord, why do you reject me? Why do you turn away from me?


\par }{\Q \VS{15}I have been sick since I was young, often at death's door. I have had to bear the terrible things you've done to me. I'm in despair!


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Your anger has overcome me; the terrible things you do have destroyed me.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}They surround me all the time like floodwaters, swallowing me up.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}You have made my family and friends avoid me. Darkness is my only friend.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{89}{\D A psalm (maskil) of Ethan the Ezraite
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I will sing of the Lord's trustworthy love forever; I will tell all generations of your faithfulness.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}For I have said, “Your unfailing love lasts forever; your faithfulness endures as long as the heavens.”


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You\FTNT{*}{{\FR 89:3 }{\FT{Referring to God.}}} said, “I have made an agreement\FTNT{†}{{\FR 89:3 }{\FT{Or covenant.}}} with my chosen one, I gave a binding promise to my servant David:


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I will make sure your lineage lasts forever; I will keep your throne secure for all generations.” Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}All the heavenly beings will sing of the wonderful things you have done, Lord; angels will gather to sing of your faithfulness.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}For who in heaven can compare to the Lord? Who is like the Lord even among the angels?


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The heavenly council are in awe of God; all who surround him are overwhelmed by him.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Lord God Almighty, who is as powerful as you? In all this,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 89:8 }{\FT{“In all this”: implied.}}} Lord, you are completely trustworthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You rule the restless seas; you calm their stormy waves.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}You crushed Rahab the sea-monster to death; by your power you scattered your enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The heavens belong to you, and the earth too; you made the world and everything in it.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}You created north and south; Mount Tabor and Mount Hermon celebrate you.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Your arm is powerful. Your hand is strong. Your right hand is held up high in command.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 89:13 }{\FT{“In command”: implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Your character of goodness and fairness is the basis for the way you rule; dependable love and trustworthiness are always with you.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}How happy are those who know how to shout your praises, Lord.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 89:15 }{\FT{This may have involved the shouts that accompanied the start of religious festivals.}}} They live in the light of your presence.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}They celebrate the person you are all day long, so glad that you do what's right.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}They rely on you, their glory and strength; by your grace you lift us up.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Yes, the Lord is the one who shields us, and our king belongs to the Holy One of Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Once you spoke in a vision to your faithful servant and said,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 89:19 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{2 Samuel 7:4-17}}{\FT{.
}}} “I have given strength to the warrior I have chosen from the people to become king.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}I have selected David my servant, and I have anointed him with the oil of my holiness.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}I have placed my hand on him to steady him; and I have made him strong by my powerful arm.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}His enemies will not deceive him; the wicked will not bring him down.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}I will wipe out his enemies before him; I will strike down those who hate him.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}My trustworthiness and unfailing love will be with him, and through me he will be victorious.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 89:24 }{\FT{Literally, “In my name his horn will be exalted.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{25}I will extend his rule from the Mediterranean Sea to the Euphrates River.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 89:25 }{\FT{Literally, “I will set his hand on the sea and his right hand on the rivers.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{26}He will call out to me, ‘You are my Father, my God, and the rock of my salvation.’


\par }{\Q \VS{27}I will also make him my first-born son, the highest of the kings of the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}I will love him faithfully forever; my agreement\FTNT{*}{{\FR 89:28 }{\FT{Or “covenant.”}}} with him shall never come to an end.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}I will make sure his royal line lasts forever; his dynasty\FTNT{†}{{\FR 89:29 }{\FT{Literally, “throne.”}}} will continue as long as the heavens endure.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}But if his descendants abandon my laws, if they do not follow my rules,


\par }{\Q \VS{31}if they break my decrees, and do not keep my commandments,


\par }{\Q \VS{32}I will punish their rebellion by beating them with a rod, and their sin by lashing them with a whip.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}However, I will not take away my love from him; I will not break my promise to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}I will not annul the agreement I have with him; I will not alter a single word I've said.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}By my holy character I have made a vow to David that I will not lie to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}His royal line will last forever, and his dynasty will continue before me as long as the sun endures.


\par }{\Q \VS{37}It will continue forever like the moon, an enduring witness in the heavens.” Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{38}But you\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 89:38 }{\FT{The psalmist is now addressing God.
}}} have rejected and abandoned him! You are angry with your chosen king!\FTNT{§}{{\FR 89:38 }{\FT{Literally, “anointed one.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{39}You have broken the agreement you had with him; you have thrown his crown to the ground!


\par }{\Q \VS{40}You have torn down his defensive walls; you have ruined his fortresses.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 89:40 }{\FT{The king is used as a symbol for Jerusalem which has been attacked and destroyed.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{41}Everyone who passes by has robbed him; he has become an object of mockery to the nations nearby.


\par }{\Q \VS{42}You have made his enemies strong; you have made them celebrate their victory.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 89:42 }{\FT{“Their victory”—implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{43}You have repelled his sharp sword; you have not helped him in battle.


\par }{\Q \VS{44}You took away his glory; you threw his throne to the ground.


\par }{\Q \VS{45}You have made him grow old before his time; you have totally humiliated him. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{46}How long, Lord? Will you hide yourself from us forever, your anger burning like fire?


\par }{\Q \VS{47}Remember me—my life is so short! Why did you bother creating futile humanity?


\par }{\Q \VS{48}There's no one who doesn't die—no one can save themselves from the power of the grave. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{49}Where is the trustworthy love you used to have, Lord, that you faithfully promised to David?


\par }{\Q \VS{50}Don't forget, Lord, how your servants are being humiliated! I'm burdened down\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 89:50 }{\FT{“I am burdened down”: literally, “I carry in my lap.”}}} with the insults of so many nations!


\par }{\Q \VS{51}Your enemies taunt me, Lord, mocking your king\FTNT{§}{{\FR 89:51 }{\FT{Literally, “anointed one.”}}} wherever he goes.


\par }{\Q \VS{52}May the Lord be blessed for ever. Amen and amen.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{90}{\D A prayer of Moses, the man of God.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, through every generation, you have been “home” for us!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Before the mountains were born, before you gave birth to the earth and the universe, from eternity past to eternity future, you are God.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You turn people back into dust, saying, “Return to dust, human beings.”


\par }{\Q \VS{4}In your eyes, a thousand years are like a day that's already gone; like a few passing hours of the night.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You bring people's lives to a sudden end, like dreams that vanish. They are like grass that grows up in the morning—


\par }{\Q \VS{6}it sprouts in the morning, fresh and new, but by the evening it is withered and dead.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}We are burned up by your anger, terrified by your fury.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You have set out our sins before you—our secret sins are visible in the light of your presence.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Our lives fade away under your anger, coming to an end as quickly as a sigh.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}We live for seventy years—eighty if we have the strength. But even in the prime of life all that we have is hardship and suffering. Soon our lives are over and we're gone.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Who can know the power of your anger? Who understands your fury so you can be shown reverence?


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Teach us to value every one of our days so we can live wisely!


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Lord, how long will it be before you come back to us and have pity on us your servants?


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Show us every morning your trustworthy love so we may be happy, full of joy throughout our lives.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Make us glad for as many days as you made us sad, for all the years we suffered!


\par }{\Q \VS{16}May we, your servants, see you at work for us\FTNT{*}{{\FR 90:16 }{\FT{“For us”—implied.}}} again; may our children see your glory.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}May our Lord God be pleased with us, blessing what we do, blessing what we do.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{91}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Those who live under the protection of the Most High are kept safe by the Almighty.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}This is what I say about the Lord: “He is the one who defends and protects me. He is my God, and I trust in him.”


\par }{\Q \VS{3}For he will save you from hidden traps and deadly diseases.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 91:3 }{\FT{“Hidden traps and deadly diseases”: literally, “the fowler's snare and plague of destruction.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}He will hide you under his feathers, and shelter you with his wings. His trustworthiness shields and protects you.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You will not be afraid of terror at night or an arrow that flies in the day,


\par }{\Q \VS{6}or disease that attacks at night, or catastrophe that falls at noon.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}A thousand may fall beside you, ten thousand die at your right hand, but you won't be harmed.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You only have to open your eyes and you will see how the wicked are repaid.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Because you have made the Lord your protection, and the Most High your home,


\par }{\Q \VS{10}nothing evil will happen to you; no plague will come near where you live.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}For he will command his angels to take care of you in everything you do.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}They will hold you up with their hands so you won't trip and fall down.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}You will trample lions and snakes; you will tread young lions and serpents underfoot.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}I\FTNT{†}{{\FR 91:14 }{\FT{The Lord is speaking.}}} will save anyone who loves me; I will protect anyone who accepts me.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}When they call out to me for help, I will answer; when they are in trouble, I will be with them. I will save and honor them.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}I will grant them long lives, and show them my salvation.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{92}{\D A psalm. A song for the Sabbath day.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}How good it is to thank the Lord, to sing praises to you, Most High,


\par }{\Q \VS{2}to tell of your trustworthy love in the morning, and your faithfulness in the night,


\par }{\Q \VS{3}to the music of a ten-stringed harp and the melody of a lyre.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}You've made me so happy, Lord, because of all you've done for me! I sing for joy at what you've done!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Lord, what you do is amazing; your thoughts are very profound!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Only senseless people and fools don't know and understand this:


\par }{\Q \VS{7}even though the wicked grow up quickly like grass, and even though people who do evil flourish, they will be destroyed forever!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}But you, Lord, rule on high forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Your enemies, Lord, your enemies will die; everyone who does evil will be destroyed!


\par }{\Q \VS{10}But you have made me as powerful as a wild bull; you have anointed me with the best olive oil.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}My eyes look with pleasure to see my enemies defeated; my ears have heard the downfall of those who tried to attack me.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 92:11 }{\FT{This appears to be the meaning of the text, but the words “defeated” and “downfall” are supplied, otherwise there would be no reason to celebrate.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Those who live right flourish like a palm tree; they grow tall like a cedar tree in Lebanon.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}They are planted in the house of the Lord; they thrive in the courts of our God.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Even when they are old they will still produce fruit, staying fresh and green.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}They will declare, “The Lord does what is right! He is my rock! There is no wrong in him!”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{93}{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord reigns, clothed in majesty! He wears his royal robes, with his power worn like a belt. The world is held together firmly—it cannot be broken apart.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Your throne has existed from ages past; you are from eternity.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The floods have raised up, Lord; the floods have raised their voices; the floods have raised up their crashing waves.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But greater than the most violent ocean, greater than the largest waves of the sea, the greatest is the Lord above.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Your laws are totally trustworthy. Your house,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 93:5 }{\FT{“Your house”: this could refer to the Temple, or to the Lord's enduring reign.}}} Lord, is holy forever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{94}{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord is a God of vengeance! God of vengeance, shine out!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 94:1 }{\FT{The shining out of God's vengeance is a call for the display of justice and right. Vengeance when it is applied to God should not be taken as a vindictive action of retaliation as human beings do when they exact revenge. It is an establishing of what is right, correcting wrongs, and making sure there is resolution to the problem of evil.
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Stand up, judge of the earth, and pay back those who are proud what they deserve.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}How long, Lord? How long will the wicked celebrate in triumph?


\par }{\Q \VS{4}How long will you let them pour out their arrogant words? How long will these evil people go on boasting?


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Lord, they crush your people; they oppress those you call your own.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They kill widows and foreigners; they murder orphans.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}They say, “The Lord can't see what we're doing. Israel's God doesn't pay any attention to us.”


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Take another look, you stupid people! Fools—when will you ever get the point?


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Do you think the creator of the ear can't hear? Do you think the maker of the eye can't see?


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Do you think that the one who punishes nations won't punish you too? Do you think that the one who teaches human beings knowledge doesn't know anything?\FTNT{†}{{\FR 94:10 }{\FT{“Doesn't know anything”—implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The Lord knows the thoughts of human beings—he knows they are pointless.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Those you discipline are happy, Lord; those you teach from your Law.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}You give them peace in days of trouble, until a pit is dug to trap the wicked.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}For the Lord will not give up on his people; he will not abandon his own.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Justice will once again be based on what is right; those who are sincere will support it.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Who came to my defense against the wicked; who stood up for me against those who do evil?


\par }{\Q \VS{17}If the Lord hadn't helped me, I would have soon gone down into the silence of the grave.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}I shouted out, “My foot's slipping!” and your trustworthy love, Lord, kept me from falling.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}When my mind was full of worries, you comforted me and encouraged me.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Can unjust judges really be on your side, Lord, when their corrupt use of the law causes misery?


\par }{\Q \VS{21}They work together to destroy good people; they condemn those who are innocent to death.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}But the Lord protects me like a fortress; my God is the rock that keeps me safe.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}He will turn the wickedness of evil people back upon them; he will destroy them because of their sins; the Lord our God will destroy them.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{95}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Come, let's sing for joy to the Lord! Let's shout in triumph to the rock of our salvation!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Let's go before him with thanksgiving! Let's sing loudly to him in celebration!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}For the Lord is a great God, a great king above all gods.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}He rules over the depths of the earth and the heights of the mountains.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The sea is his, because he made it; the dry land, because he formed it.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Come, let's enter in\FTNT{*}{{\FR 95:6 }{\FT{Speaking of entering into the Temple to worship.}}} and worship, let's kneel before the Lord our Creator.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}For he is our God, and we are the people he looks after like a shepherd, the flock he cares for. If you hear his voice calling you today,


\par }{\Q \VS{8}don't have a hard-hearted attitude,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 95:8 }{\FT{“Have a hard-hearted attitude”: literally, “do not harden your hearts.”}}} “as you did at Meribah, as you did that day at Massah in the desert,


\par }{\Q \VS{9}when your forefathers provoked me, testing my patience, even though they had seen everything I'd done.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}For forty years I was disgusted with that generation, and I said, ‘They are people who are unfaithful to me in their minds, and they refuse to accept my ways.’


\par }{\Q \VS{11}So in my frustration I vowed, ‘They will certainly not enter my rest.’ ”\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 95:11 }{\FT{“My rest,” referring to the Promised Land.}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{96}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Sing to the Lord a new song! All the earth, sing to the Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Sing to the Lord, and of his wonderful reputation!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 96:2 }{\FT{“Reputation”: literally, “name.”}}} Each day let everyone know of his salvation!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Declare his glorious acts among the nations, the amazing things he does among all peoples.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}For the Lord is great, and deserves the best praise! He is to be respected with awe above all gods.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For all the gods of other nations are idols; but the Lord made the heavens!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Splendor and majesty are his; power and glory are in his sanctuary.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Give the Lord acclamation, nations of the world, acclaim him with glory and strength.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Give the Lord the glory he deserves; bring an offering and come into his courts.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Worship the Lord in his magnificent holiness; let all the earth tremble in his presence.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Tell the nations, “The Lord is in charge!” The world is held together firmly—it cannot be broken apart. He will judge everyone fairly.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Let the heavens sing for joy, let the earth be happy, let the sea and everything in it shout with praise!


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Let the fields and everything there celebrate; let all the trees in the forest sing for joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}In fact, let everything that stands before the Lord sing praises,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 96:13 }{\FT{Expanded for clarity.}}} for he is coming, coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with fairness, and the nations with his truth.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{97}{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord reigns! Let the earth be glad, and distant lands be full of joy!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}He is surrounded by clouds and thick darkness; his throne is founded on justice and right.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Flames proceed him, burning up his enemies on every side.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}His flashes of lightning light up the world; the earth watches and trembles.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The mountains melt like wax in the presence of the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The heavens proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}All those who worship idols are humiliated, those who are proud of their idols—for all “gods” bow down before him.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Jerusalem hears this and celebrates; all the towns of Judah are happy because of your judgments, Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}For you, Lord, are the highest of all, ruling over the whole earth; your position is far above any other god.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}You who love the Lord, hate evil! He protects the lives of those who are faithful to him, and saves them from the power of wicked people.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Light shines\FTNT{*}{{\FR 97:11 }{\FT{Or “is sown.”}}} on those who do good, giving joy to those who live right.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Be happy in the Lord, you who do right, and thank him for his holy nature!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{98}{\D A psalm.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Sing the Lord a new song, for he has done wonderful things: by his powerful right hand and his strong arm he has won the victory.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The Lord has revealed his salvation to the nations, and shown them his goodness.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}He has not forgotten to show his trustworthy love and faithfulness to the descendants of Israel. Our God has made his salvation clear to the ends of the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Everyone on earth, shout in triumph to the Lord; break out in joyful songs of praise!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Sing praises to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious voices;


\par }{\Q \VS{6}with trumpets and the sound of the ram's horn sing in happiness before the Lord, the King.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Let the sea and everything in it shout with praise, together with the earth and everything living in it.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Let the rivers celebrate, let the hills join in the celebration\FTNT{*}{{\FR 98:8 }{\FT{Literally, “let the rivers clap their hands together, let the hills sing for joy.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}before the Lord, for he is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world justly, and the nations fairly.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{99}{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord reigns; let the nations tremble! He sits on his throne above the cherubim; let the earth shake!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The Lord rules supreme in Zion, he is sovereign over all the nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Let them praise his greatness, and respect him for who he is—for he is holy,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}having kingly power. You love justice; you make impartial decisions. You have made sure everything is done in fairness and according to what's right.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Give respect to the Lord our God! Bow down at his feet, for he is holy!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Moses and Aaron were among his priests; Samuel also prayed to him. They called out to the Lord for help, and he answered them.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He spoke to the people from the pillar of cloud, and they kept the laws and decrees he gave them.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Lord our God, you answered them. You were a forgiving God to them, but you punished them when they did wrong.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Honor the Lord our God, and worship at his holy mountain. For the Lord our God is holy!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{100}{\D A psalm of thanksgiving.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Everyone on earth shout for joy to the Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with joyful songs!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Know that the Lord is God! He made us, so we belong to him.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 100:3 }{\FT{“So we belong to him”: alternatively, “we did not make ourselves.”}}} We are his people, the flock he cares for.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Go in through his gate with thanks; enter his courts with praise. Thank him; praise him for who he is.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}For the Lord is good. His trustworthy love lasts forever; his faithfulness continues for all generations.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{101}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I will sing of your faithful love and good judgment. I will sing praises to you, Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I will make sure my life is blameless. When will you come and help me? My life will be one of integrity even in private.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 101:2 }{\FT{“Even in private”: literally, “in my house.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I will not look at anything evil. I hate doing wrong—I won't have anything to do with it.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I won't think bad thoughts—I won't even consider anything evil.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I will silence anyone who secretly slanders their neighbor. I won't tolerate anyone who is proud and arrogant.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I look for faithful people to live with me; only those who are trustworthy will serve me.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}No one who is dishonest will live in my house; no liars will be allowed in my presence.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I work every day to silence the wicked in the land, to rid the city of the Lord of all who do evil.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{102}{\D A prayer from someone who is suffering and is tired out, pouring out their troubles to the Lord.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, please hear my prayer, my cry for help!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Don't hide your face from me in my time of trouble! Turn and listen to me, and answer me quickly when I call.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}My life is disappearing like smoke; my body feels like it's on fire!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I'm like grass that's dried up, withered away—I even forget to eat!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}All my groaning has worn me out; my bones show through my skin.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I'm like a desert owl,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 102:6 }{\FT{“Owl”: some identify this bird as a pelican or cormorant.}}} like a little owl among the ruins.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I can't sleep. I'm like a lonely bird on a rooftop.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}My enemies taunt me all day long. They mock me and swear at me.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Ashes are the food I eat; my tears drip into my drink,


\par }{\Q \VS{10}because of your anger and hostility, for you have picked me up and tossed me away.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}My life is fading away like a shadow that lengthens—I'm withering away like grass.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}But you, Lord, reign\FTNT{†}{{\FR 102:12 }{\FT{Literally, “sit.”}}} forever, your fame will last for all generations.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}You will take action and have pity on Jerusalem, for it's time to be kind to the city, the time has come.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}For the people who follow you love its stones; they value even its dust!


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Then the nations will be in awe of who you are, Lord; all the kings of the earth will be in awe of your glory.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}For the Lord will rebuild Jerusalem; he will appear in glory.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}He will pay attention to the prayers of the homeless; he will not disregard their requests.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Let this be recorded for generations to come, so that people yet to be born may praise the Lord:


\par }{\Q \VS{19}The Lord looked down from above, from the heights of his holy place; he looked down from heaven to the earth,


\par }{\Q \VS{20}to respond to the groans of prisoners, to set free the children of death.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 102:20 }{\FT{Meaning “those condemned to die.”
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{21}As a result\FTNT{§}{{\FR 102:21 }{\FT{Implied.}}} the wonderful nature of the Lord will be celebrated with praise in Jerusalem,


\par }{\Q \VS{22}when the people of many kingdoms gather together to worship the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}But as for me,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 102:23 }{\FT{Added for clarity.}}} he broke my health while I was still young, cutting my life short.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}I cried out, “My God, don't take my life while I'm young! You are the one who lives forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Long ago you created the earth; you made the heavens.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}They will come to an end, but you will not. They will all wear out, like clothes—you will change them, and throw them away.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}But you are the one who always is;\FTNT{†}{{\FR 102:27 }{\FT{“You are the one who always is”: literally, “you are he.”}}} your years never come to an end.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Our children will live with you, and our children's children will grow in your presence.”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{103}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Let every part of me praise the Lord; let my whole being praise his holy character.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Let every part of me praise the Lord; don't let me forget the wonderful things he's done for me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}He forgives my sins, and he heals all my diseases.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}He saves me from death; he honors\FTNT{*}{{\FR 103:4 }{\FT{Literally, “crowns.”}}} me with trustworthy love and mercy.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}He fills my life with all that's good; he makes me young again, strong as an eagle.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The Lord does what is right, and vindicates those who are exploited.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He explained his ways to Moses: he told the people of Israel what he was going to do.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord is kind and gracious, not quick-tempered, and full of trustworthy love.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He doesn't keep on accusing us; he doesn't stay angry with us forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}He does not punish us for our sins as he ought to; he does not pay us back for our wrongdoing as we deserve.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}For as high as the heavens are above the earth is the extent of his trustworthy love to those who honor him.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}As far as the east is from the west is how far the Lord has taken our sins away from us.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Like a loving father, the Lord is kind and compassionate to those who follow him.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}For he knows how we are made; he remembers we are only dust.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Human lifetimes are like grass: we blossom like flowers in a field,


\par }{\Q \VS{16}but then the wind blows and we are gone, disappearing without a trace.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}But the Lord's trustworthy love lasts for all eternity to those who accept him; his goodness to all generations,


\par }{\Q \VS{18}to those who keep his agreement and who remember to follow his commandments.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}The Lord has set up his throne in the heavens, and he rules over all.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Praise the Lord, you angels, you powerful ones who do what he says, listening to what he tells you!


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Praise the Lord, you heavenly armies who serve him and carry out his will!


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Praise the Lord, everything in his creation, everyone under his rule, and let every part of me praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{104}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Let every part of me praise the Lord! Lord my God, you are so great, clothed with majesty and splendor!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You wear light as your clothing; you stretch out the fabric\FTNT{*}{{\FR 104:2 }{\FT{Literally, “tent curtain.”}}} of the heavens.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You place the roof-beams of your house in the rainclouds. You make the clouds your chariots. You ride on the wings of the wind.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}You make your angels winds, and your servants flames of fire.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 104:4 }{\FT{Septuagint reading; also quoted in
}}{\XT{Hebrews 1:7}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You set the earth on its foundations; it will never be shaken.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}It was clothed with ocean depths—the waters even covered the mountains—


\par }{\Q \VS{7}but at your command the waters fled; at the sound of your thunder they rushed away.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The mountains rose up and the valleys sank down to where you had determined.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}You set a boundary for the oceans so they would not come back and cover the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}You make springs flow into the streams, running down between the hills.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They provide water for all the wild animals, and wild donkeys quench their thirst.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Birds build their nests in trees along the streams, singing from among the leaves.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}You send down rain on the mountains from your home high above; you fill the earth with good things.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}You make the grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to eat—crops produced by the earth for food,


\par }{\Q \VS{15}and wine to make them happy, olive oil to make their faces shine, and bread to make them strong.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}The Lord's trees are well-watered, the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Sparrows make their nests there; herons make their homes in the tall trees.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Wild goats live high in the mountains; hyraxes hide among the rocks.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}You made the moon to mark the months, and the sun knows when to set.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}You make darkness fall and the night comes, the time when the forest animals come out to hunt.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 104:20 }{\FT{“To hunt”: implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{21}The young lions roar as they seek their prey, looking for the food that God provides for them.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}When the sun rises they return to their dens to rest.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Then people leave for work, working until the evening.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Lord, how many different things you have made—all of them wisely created! The earth is full of your creatures.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Consider the sea, deep and wide, full of all kinds of living things, large and small.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Ships sail there, and Leviathan,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 104:26 }{\FT{A sea monster.}}} that you made to play in it.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}All creatures look to you to give them food at the right time.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}When you provide it, they gather it up. You hand out food to them, and they are well-fed.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}When you turn away from them, they're terrified; when you take away their breath, they die and return to dust.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}When you send your breath, they are created, and life covers the earth again.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}May the Lord's glory last forever! The Lord is happy with all he has made.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}He only has to look at the earth and it trembles; mountains pour out smoke at his touch.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}I will sing to the Lord for as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God my whole life.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}May he be pleased with my thoughts\FTNT{*}{{\FR 104:34 }{\FT{Or “meditation,” “composition.”}}} because I am happy in the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}Let sinners be destroyed from the earth; let the wicked cease to exist. Let every part of me praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{105}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Give the Lord thanks, worship his wonderful nature, let people know what he's done!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Sing to him, sing his praises; tell everyone the great things he's done!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Be proud of his holy character; be happy, all who come to the Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Look for the Lord, and his strength; always look to be in his presence.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Remember all the wonderful things he's done, the miracles he's performed, and the judgments\FTNT{*}{{\FR 105:5 }{\FT{In the context, probably referring to the judgments on heathen nations.}}} he's carried out,


\par }{\Q \VS{6}descendants of Abraham, children of Israel, his chosen people.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He is the Lord, our God, his judgments cover the whole earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}He remembers his agreement forever, the promise he made lasts for a thousand generations;


\par }{\Q \VS{9}the agreement he made with Abraham, the vow he gave to Isaac.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The Lord legally confirmed it with Jacob, he made this binding agreement with Israel:


\par }{\Q \VS{11}saying to you, “I will give the land of Canaan for you to possess.”


\par }{\Q \VS{12}He said this when they were only a few, just a small group of foreigners in the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}They wandered from country to country, from one kingdom to the next.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}He didn't let anyone treat them badly; warning kings to leave them alone:


\par }{\Q \VS{15}“Don't touch my chosen people; don't harm my prophets!”


\par }{\Q \VS{16}He caused\FTNT{†}{{\FR 105:16 }{\FT{Literally, “called.”}}} a famine in the Land of Canaan so that there was no food.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Before that he sent a man, Joseph, who was sold as a slave.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 105:17 }{\FT{This refers to the story in Genesis of Joseph being sold as a slave and taken to Egypt.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{18}They hurt his feet by placing them in shackles, and they put an iron collar around his neck,


\par }{\Q \VS{19}until the time predicted came when the Lord tested him.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}The king\FTNT{§}{{\FR 105:20 }{\FT{Referring to the Pharaoh.}}} sent for him and released him; the king of the people set him free.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}He put Joseph in charge of the royal household, manager of everything he had,


\par }{\Q \VS{22}to teach\FTNT{*}{{\FR 105:22 }{\FT{Septuagint reading.}}} the king's officials whatever he wanted, to make the king's advisors wise.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Then Israel entered Egypt—Jacob settled as a foreigner in the land of Ham.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 105:23 }{\FT{“Land of Ham”: an old term for Egypt.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{24}The Lord made his people more fertile and more powerful than their enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}He made the Egyptians\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 105:25 }{\FT{Literally, “them.” In the context it is the people of Egypt, particularly the Pharaoh.}}} change their minds and hate his people and act deceptively towards them.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}He sent his servant Moses, together with Aaron, whom he had chosen.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}They\FTNT{§}{{\FR 105:27 }{\FT{Or “he.”}}} carried out his miraculous signs among the Egyptians, his wonders in the land of Ham.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}He plunged the country into darkness—for hadn't they defied what the Lord had said?\FTNT{*}{{\FR 105:28 }{\FT{“For hadn't they defied what the Lord had said?” This applies to the Egyptians. Alternatively it could be translated, “for they had not defied what the Lord had said,” referring to Moses and Aaron.
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{29}He turned their water into blood, killing all the fish.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}Then he sent a plague of frogs across the land that even entered the bedrooms of their rulers.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}He gave the command, and flies spread throughout their land; mosquitoes were everywhere.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}He rained down hail on them, and lightning flashed across their land.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}He struck down their grape vines, and tore down their trees.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}He gave the command, and swarms of locusts came—countless locusts:


\par }{\Q \VS{35}they ate up all the vegetation in their land; they consumed all the growing crops.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}He killed all the firstborn in Egypt, the first to be produced in their vigor and strength.


\par }{\Q \VS{37}Then he led his people out of Egypt, carrying silver and gold—not one among the tribes was stumbling along.


\par }{\Q \VS{38}The Egyptians were delighted to see them go, for they were frightened of the Israelites.


\par }{\Q \VS{39}He spread a cloud above them as a covering, and at night a fire to give them light.


\par }{\Q \VS{40}He gave them quails to eat when they asked him; he fed them with the bread of heaven until they were full.


\par }{\Q \VS{41}He split the rock open, and water gushed out—a river flowing through the desert.


\par }{\Q \VS{42}For he remembered his holy promise to his servant Abraham.


\par }{\Q \VS{43}So he led his people out, his chosen ones, as they sang for joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{44}He gave them the lands of the heathen nations, and they inherited what other people had worked for.


\par }{\Q \VS{45}The Lord did this so they could follow his instructions and keep his laws. Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{106}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! Thank the Lord, for he is good! His trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Who can give an account of all the wonderful things the Lord has done?\FTNT{*}{{\FR 106:2 }{\FT{In other words, no one knows the full extent of God's activities.}}} Who can give him all the praise he is due?


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Happy are those who treat people fairly, who always do what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Please remember me when you are generous to your people; think of me when you come to save.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Let me see your chosen people prosperous; let me be happy together with your nation; let me share in being proud of you with those who belong to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}We have sinned just like our forefathers. We have done wrong. We are guilty.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}They didn't pay attention to the wonderful things you did. They didn't keep in mind how much you loved them, but chose to rebel at the sea, the Red Sea.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 106:7 }{\FT{“The Sea of Reeds.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Even so he saved them because of the kind of person he is, and to show his power


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He gave his order\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 106:9 }{\FT{Literally, “rebuked.”}}} to the Red Sea, and it dried up. He led his people across the seabed as if it were a desert.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}He rescued them from those who hated them; he saved them from their enemies' power.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The water drowned their enemies—none of them survived,


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Then his people trusted in what he promised, and sang his praises.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}But they quickly forgot what he had done for them, and they didn't listen to his advice.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}They were filled with desperate cravings\FTNT{§}{{\FR 106:14 }{\FT{For food, particularly meat.
}}} in the wilderness; they provoked God in the desert.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}He gave them what they wanted, but sent them a plague\FTNT{*}{{\FR 106:15 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{Numbers 11:33-34}}{\FT{.}}} as well.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}In the camp the people became jealous of Moses, and of Aaron, the Lord's holy priest.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}The earth split open and swallowed up Dathan; it buried Abiram and his followers.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 106:17 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{Numbers 16}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Fire broke out among them—a flame that burned them up.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}At Mount Sinai\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 106:19 }{\FT{Literally, Horeb: another name for Mount Sinai.}}} they made a calf, they bowed down before a metal idol.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 106:19 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{Exodus 32}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{20}They replaced their God of glory with a bull that eats grass!


\par }{\Q \VS{21}They forgot God, their Savior, who had done marvelous things in Egypt;


\par }{\Q \VS{22}performing miracles in the land of Ham,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 106:22 }{\FT{“Land of Ham”—another name for Egypt.}}} doing amazing things at the Red Sea.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}So he said he was going to destroy them. But Moses, his chosen leader, placed himself between the Lord and the people to persuade the Lord not to destroy them in his anger.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Later the people refused to enter the Promised Land; they didn't trust him to do as he'd promised.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}They complained in their tents about the Lord, and refused to obey what he told them.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}So he raised his hand to give them a serious warning that he would bring them down in the wilderness,


\par }{\Q \VS{27}that he would disperse\FTNT{†}{{\FR 106:27 }{\FT{Following the parallel passage in
}}{\XT{Ezekiel 20:23}}{\FT{.}}} their descendants among the heathen nations, scattering them among countries far away.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}They gave their allegiance to Baal Peor,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 106:28 }{\FT{A heathen god, see
}}{\XT{Numbers 25}}{\FT{.}}} and ate food sacrificed to the dead.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}They provoked the Lord by what they did, making him angry, so a plague broke out among them.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}But Phinehas took a stand for the Lord and intervened, and the plague was stopped in its tracks.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}He has been considered as a man who lived right\FTNT{§}{{\FR 106:31 }{\FT{The same phrase is used about Abraham in
}}{\XT{Genesis 15:6}}{\FT{.}}} from that time on and for all generations.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}They also angered him at the waters of Meribah where things went badly for Moses because of them.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}They upset him so much that he spoke without thinking in the heat of the moment.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}They did not destroy the heathen peoples as the Lord had told them to do,


\par }{\Q \VS{35}but instead they joined in with them and adopted their way of life.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}They worshiped their pagan idols which became a trap for them.


\par }{\Q \VS{37}The even sacrificed their sons and daughters to these demons.


\par }{\Q \VS{38}They shed the blood of innocent children, their sons and daughters, sacrificing them to the idols of Canaan. By doing so they defiled the land with blood.


\par }{\Q \VS{39}They also defiled themselves by what they did: their actions were spiritual adultery.


\par }{\Q \VS{40}So the Lord was angry with his people—he loathed those who belonged to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{41}He handed them over to the heathen nations. These people who hated them now became their rulers.


\par }{\Q \VS{42}Their enemies dominated and subdued them with their power.


\par }{\Q \VS{43}The Lord repeatedly rescued them, but they continued with their rebellious ideas, until they were finally destroyed by their own sins.


\par }{\Q \VS{44}Despite all this, the Lord was moved by their suffering; he heard their sad cries.


\par }{\Q \VS{45}He remembered the agreement he had made with them, and he held back because of his great kindness and love.


\par }{\Q \VS{46}He made the people who captured them treat them with mercy.


\par }{\Q \VS{47}Save us, Lord, our God! Bring us back together from among the nations, so we can thank you and declare how magnificent and holy you are.


\par }{\Q \VS{48}How wonderful is the Lord, the God of Israel, who lives forever and ever! Let all the people say “Amen”! Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{107}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Thank the Lord, for he is good! His trustworthy love continues forever!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Let those the Lord has saved say that they are saved; those he has rescued from the power of the enemy.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}He has gathered them together from distant lands, from the east and the west, the north and the south.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 107:3 }{\FT{“South”: literally “the sea.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}They wandered in the desert wilderness, unable to find a way to a city where they could live.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Hungry and thirsty, they became very discouraged.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Then they cried out to the Lord to help them in their troubles, and he saved them from their suffering.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He led them along a straight way to a city where they could live.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Let them praise the Lord for his trustworthy love, and for all the wonderful things he does for people.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}For he gives drink to those who are thirsty, and food to those who are hungry.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Some sat in complete darkness, prisoners of misery and bound with iron chains,


\par }{\Q \VS{11}for they had rebelled against what God had said; they had rejected the guidance of the Most High.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}So he humbled their pride with the troubles of life; they tripped over and no one was there to stop them falling.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Then they called out to the Lord for help in their troubles, and he saved them from their suffering.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}He brought them out of complete darkness, he broke their chains to pieces.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Let them praise the Lord for his trustworthy love, and for all the wonderful things he does for people.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}For he breaks down the bronze doors, and cuts through the iron bars.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 107:16 }{\FT{Of imprisonment.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{17}They were stupid because they rebelled; they suffered for their sins.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}They didn't want to eat; they were at death's door.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Then they called out to the Lord for help in their troubles, and he saved them from their suffering.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}He gave the command and he healed them; he saved them from the grave.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Let them praise the Lord for his trustworthy love, and for all the wonderful things he does for people.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Let them present thank offerings and sing with joy about what he has done.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Those who set sail in ships, crossing the seas to earn their living,


\par }{\Q \VS{24}they have seen the Lord's incredible power at work—the wonderful things he did in the deepest oceans.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}He only had to speak to cause a stormy wind that stirred up towering waves,


\par }{\Q \VS{26}lifting the ships high in the air and then plunging them down. The sailors were so terrified that their courage melted away.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}They staggered around, falling from side to side like drunks—all their seamanship skills were useless.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Then they cried out to the Lord to help them in their troubles, and he saved them from their suffering.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}He calmed the storm, the waves were quiet.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}The sailors were so happy when it all calmed down, and he brought them to the harbor they wanted.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}Let them praise the Lord for his trustworthy love, and for all the wonderful things he does for people.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}Let them say how wonderful he is in front of the whole congregation and the elders.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}He dries up rivers and turns the land into a desert; the water springs stop flowing and the earth turns dry and dusty.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}Fruitful ground becomes a salty wasteland because of the wickedness of those living there.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}But he also turns around and makes pools of water in the desert, and makes water springs flow in a dry and dusty land.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}He brings hungry people to live there—a place they can build their cities.


\par }{\Q \VS{37}They sow their fields and plant their vineyards, producing a good harvest.


\par }{\Q \VS{38}He takes care of them, and their numbers increase dramatically—their cattle too!


\par }{\Q \VS{39}When they become few, brought low by oppression, misery, and sorrow,


\par }{\Q \VS{40}He pours out his contempt on their leaders, making them wander, lost in the wilderness.


\par }{\Q \VS{41}But he lifts the poor out of their troubles, and makes their families as big as flocks.


\par }{\Q \VS{42}Those who live right will observe what is happening and be glad, but the wicked will be silenced.


\par }{\Q \VS{43}Those who are wise will pay attention to all this, and thoughtfully reflect on the Lord's trustworthy love.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{108}{\D A song. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, I have complete confidence in you! My whole being sings praises to you!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Wake up, harp and lyre! I will wake up the dawn!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I will thank you among the peoples, Lord, I will sing your praises among the nations.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 108:3 }{\FT{These verses are almost the same as
}}{\XT{Psalms 57:8-9}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}For your trustworthy love reaches higher than the heavens, your faithfulness is higher than the clouds.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}God, your greatness is above the highest heavens; and your glory is over all the earth!\FTNT{†}{{\FR 108:5 }{\FT{This verse is the same as
}}{\XT{Psalms 57:11}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Rescue those you love! Answer us, and save us by your power!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}God has spoken from his Temple: “Triumphantly I divide up Shechem, and portion out the Valley of Succoth.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Both Gilead and Manasseh belong to me. Ephraim is my helmet, and Judah is my scepter.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}I will treat Moab as my washbasin; I will place my sandal on Edom; I will shout in triumph over Philistia.”


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Who will bring me into the fortified city? Who will lead me into Edom?


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Have you rejected us, God? Won't you go out with our armies?


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Please give us help against our enemies, for human help is worthless.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Our strength is in God, and he will crush our enemies.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 108:13 }{\FT{These verses (6-13) are substantially the same as
}}{\XT{Psalms 60:5-12}}{\FT{. For footnotes see
}}{\XT{Psalms 60}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{109}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}God, the one I praise, please don't remain silent,


\par }{\Q \VS{2}because wicked and deceitful people are attacking me, telling lies about me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They surround me with words of hate, fighting against me for no reason.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I love them, but they respond with hostility towards me, even while I'm praying for them!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They pay me back with evil instead of good, with hatred instead of love.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 109:5 }{\FT{There is a change between verse 5 and 6. The psalmist has been referring to his enemies as “they,” but from verses 6 to 19, the person being addressed is “he.” While there is no indication in the text that a different person is speaking, it seems very likely that the psalmist is quoting the words of his enemies against him. (Quotation marks were not a part of ancient punctuation.) This is the more compelling when the content of what is being said is examined. While writers of the psalms certainly do condemn their enemies and call on God to act against them, in no other psalm is there a request for inappropriate action such as the perversion of justice in rendering a guilty verdict, or counting prayers as sins. In addition the context provided by verses 1 to 5 reveals that the whole theme is one of lies and deceit practiced by the psalmist's enemies. For these reasons verses 6 to 19 are placed in quotation marks here, believing that these words originate with those who are accusing the psalmist.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}“Appoint someone wicked over him.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 109:6 }{\FT{This may refer to the appointment of an unjust judge to hear the case.}}} Have someone stand as an accuser against him.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}When he is judged and sentenced, may he be found guilty. Let his prayers be counted as sins.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}May his life be short; let someone else take over his position.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}May his children be left fatherless, and his wife become a widow.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}May his children be homeless, wandering beggars, driven from their ruined houses.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}May creditors seize all that he owns; may strangers take all that he worked for.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}May no one be kind to him; may no one take pity on his fatherless children.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}May his descendants die; may his family name be wiped out in the next generation.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}May the Lord be reminded of the sins of his fathers; may his mother's sins not be blotted out.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}May their sins be constantly before the Lord; may his name be totally forgotten by people.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}For he didn't think to be kind to others, instead he harassed and killed the poor, the needy, the brokenhearted.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}He loved to put a curse on others—let it come back on him. He had no time for blessings—so may he never receive any.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}He cursed as often as he got dressed. May his curses go into him like the water he drinks, like the olive oil he rubs on his skin that enters his bones.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}May his curses stick to him like clothing, may they be pulled tight around him like a belt.”


\par }{\Q \VS{20}May all this be the punishment of the Lord on my enemies, on those who speak evil of me.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 109:20 }{\FT{In this verse the psalmist returns to speaking of his enemies, and wishes all that has been said rebounds upon them.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{21}But treat me well, Lord God, because of your own reputation. Save me because you are faithful and good.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}For I am poor and needy, and my heart is breaking.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}I am fading away like an evening shadow; I am like a locust that is shaken off.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}I am so weak from lack of food that my legs give way; my body is just skin and bones.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}People ridicule me—they look at me and shake their heads!


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Help me, Lord my God; save me because of your trustworthy love.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}May they recognize that this is what you are doing—that you are the one who saves me.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}When they curse me, you will bless me. When they attack me, you will defeat them. And I, your servant, will be happy.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}May those who accuse me be clothed with disgrace; may they cover themselves with a cloak of shame.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}But I will keep on thanking the Lord, praising him to everyone around me.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}For he takes a stand to defend the needy, to save them from those who condemn them.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{110}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The Lord said to my Lord,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 110:1 }{\FT{“My Lord”: by the time of the New Testament this was applied to the Messiah, but it is not made explicit in the text here. (See for example
}}{\XT{Matthew 22:41-46}}{\FT{;
}}{\XT{Mark 12:35-37}}{\FT{;
}}{\XT{Luke 20:41-44}}{\FT{).}}} “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies a footstool for you.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 110:1 }{\FT{“Footstool”: A symbol of submission.}}}”


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The Lord will expand your royal power from Zion; you will rule over your enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Your people willingly follow you on the day when your power is revealed on the holy mountains, renewed in strength every morning like dew at dawn.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 110:3 }{\FT{This verse has many problems in translation, particularly at the end. Literally: “from the womb from the dawn to you the dew of our youth.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}The Lord has made a vow he will not break: “You are a priest forever, following the order of Melchizedek.”


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The Lord stands right beside you to support you; he will strike down kings in his anger.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He will execute judgment on the nations, filling their lands with corpses. He will strike down those who rule all over the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He\FTNT{§}{{\FR 110:7 }{\FT{Referring to the king that is made explicit in verse 2, not the Lord God.}}} will drink from streams beside the path.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 110:7 }{\FT{In other words the king will be refreshed.
}}} Therefore\FTNT{†}{{\FR 110:7 }{\FT{“Therefore”: probably meaning for all the reasons cited in the psalm.
}}} he will be victorious.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{111}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! I will thank the Lord with all my heart in the congregation of the faithful.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}All the wonderful things the Lord has done are studied by everyone who loves them.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}His majesty and honor are revealed by what he does; his goodness lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}He wants the wonderful things he has done to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and kind.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}He feeds those who respect him; he always remembers the agreement he made.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He demonstrated to his people the powerful things he could do by giving them the lands of other nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Everything he does can be depended on, and is right; all his commandments are trustworthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}They remain rock-solid forever. He was true and right in saying what should be done.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He delivered\FTNT{*}{{\FR 111:9 }{\FT{Referring to the Exodus. The same word is used in
}}{\XT{Exodus 8:23}}{\FT{.}}} his people. He commanded that his agreement would continue forever. How holy and awesome is his reputation!


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The beginning of wisdom is honoring the Lord. Those who follow what he says do well. He is to be praised forever!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{112}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! Happy are those who respect the Lord, who love to do what he says!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Their descendants will prosper in the land; the children of those who do good will be blessed.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Their families\FTNT{*}{{\FR 112:3 }{\FT{Literally “house,” but not in the sense of a building, but a family line.}}} will be wealthy; the good they do has eternal results.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Light shines in the darkness for those who live right, for those who are gracious, compassionate, and good.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Good things come to those who are generous in their lending and are honest in doing business.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They will never fall. Those who live right won't be forgotten.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}They aren't afraid of bad news because they rely totally on the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}They are confident and brave, and see their enemies defeated.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}They share generously, giving to the poor; the good they do has eternal results. They are greatly respected.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The wicked observe all this and are mad; they gnash their teeth in anger. They waste away, and all that they hoped for comes to nothing.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{113}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! Praise him, servants of the Lord! Praise the Lord as he is!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 113:1 }{\FT{“As he is!” literally, “name,” but this word in Hebrew means far more than simply an appellation, “name” is indicative of nature and character. Also in verses 2 and 3.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Let the Lord's nature be praised, now and forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Let everyone everywhere, from the east to the west,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 113:3 }{\FT{Or “from sunrise to sunset.”}}} praise the Lord as he is!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}The Lord rules supreme over all nations; his glory extends higher than the heavens.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Who is like the Lord our God? He is the one who lives on high, seated on his throne.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He has to stoop low to look down on the heavens and the earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He helps the poor up from the dust; he lifts the needy from the dump.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}He gives them positions of honor\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 113:8 }{\FT{“Gives them positions of honor”: literally, “makes them sit.”}}} together with important leaders,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 113:8 }{\FT{“Important leaders”: literally, “princes.”}}} with leaders of his own people.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He makes the childless woman happy in her home by giving her children. Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{114}{\Q \VerseOne{1}At the time of the exodus of Israel from Egypt, when the descendants of Jacob left that foreign country,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 114:1 }{\FT{“Foreign country”: literally, “people of a foreign language.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}the land of Judah became the Lord's sanctuary, Israel his kingdom.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The Red Sea saw them and ran away; the Jordan River retreated.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Mountains jumped in fright\FTNT{†}{{\FR 114:4 }{\FT{Literally “skipped,” but this suggests a playful action when the context makes it clear that the jumping is due to fear, not joy.}}} like rams, hills startled\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 114:4 }{\FT{“Startled”: implied. The image is of mountains and hills shaking as in an earthquake.}}} like lambs.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Red Sea—why did you run away? Jordan River—why did you retreat?


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Mountains—why did you jump in fright? Hills—why did you startle like lambs?


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Earth, tremble in the presence of the Lord, tremble in the presence of the God of Jacob!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}He is the one who turned the rock into a pool of water; making water flow from the hard rock.\FTNT{§}{{\FR 114:8 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{Exodus 17:1-7}}{\FT{;
}}{\XT{Numbers 20:1-13}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{115}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to you all glory should be given, because of your trustworthy love and faithfulness.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Why should the heathen nations ask, “Where is your God?”


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Our God is in heaven, and he does whatever he wants.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Their idols are just things of silver and gold made by human hands.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They have mouths, but can't speak. They have eyes, but can't see.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They have ears, but can't hear. They have noses, but can't smell.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}They have hands, but can't feel. They have feet, but can't walk. No sound comes from their throats.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 115:7 }{\FT{In other words, there is no sound of breathing.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Those who make idols become just like them, and so does everyone who trusts in them.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Israel, trust in the Lord! He is the one who helps you and protects you.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Descendants of Aaron, trust in the Lord! He is the one who helps you and protects you.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Those who honor the Lord, trust in the Lord! He is the one who helps you and protects you.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The Lord keeps us in mind and will be good to us. He will bless Israel, he will bless the descendants of Aaron.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}The Lord will bless all those who worship him, whoever they are.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 115:13 }{\FT{“Whoever they are”: literally, “the small with the great.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{14}May the Lord be good to you, you and your children.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}May you be blessed by the Lord who made heaven and earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}The heavens belong to the Lord, but he has given the earth to humankind.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}The dead do not praise the Lord, those who have gone down into the silence of the grave.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}But we the living will always praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{116}{\Q \VerseOne{1}I love the Lord because he listens to me, he hears my calls for help.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Because he pays attention to what I say I will pray to him as long as I live.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I was caught in the snares of death; I was trapped by terrors of the grave. All I experienced was suffering and grief.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Then I cried out to the Lord, “Lord, please save me!”


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The Lord is so kind and good! Our God is so compassionate!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The Lord takes care of those who are powerless;\FTNT{*}{{\FR 116:6 }{\FT{Literally, “simple.”}}} when I was brought down he saved me.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I can once again be at peace because the Lord has been good to me.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}For you have saved me from death, my eyes from crying, and my feet from stumbling.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Now I can walk with the Lord in the land of the living.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}I trusted in you, so I told you, “I'm suffering terribly!”


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I was so upset that I said, “Everyone's a liar!”


\par }{\Q \VS{12}What can I give the Lord in return for all he's done for me?


\par }{\Q \VS{13}I will lift up the cup of salvation\FTNT{†}{{\FR 116:13 }{\FT{Thought to refer to the wine offering.}}} and worship the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}I will keep my promises to the Lord so everyone can see.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 116:14 }{\FT{Usually understood to mean promises to make offerings as part of the sacrificial system.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{15}It hurts\FTNT{§}{{\FR 116:15 }{\FT{“It hurts”: the word used here is “costly,” in other words the Lord suffers a loss when those who trust in him die.}}} the Lord when those who trust in him die.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 116:15 }{\FT{In other words, he cares deeply about those he loves and is saddened when they die.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Lord, I really am your slave, serving you as my mother served you before me, yet you have set me free.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I will offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to you and I will worship you.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}I will keep my promises to the Lord so everyone can see,


\par }{\Q \VS{19}there in the house of the Lord, right in Jerusalem. Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{117}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord, all nations; everyone everywhere, praise how wonderful he is!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}For his trustworthy love for us is above all; his faithfulness is eternal. Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{118}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Thank the Lord, for he is good! His trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Let all Israel say, “His trustworthy love lasts forever.”


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Let Aaron's descendants say, “His trustworthy love lasts forever.”


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Let those who honor the Lord say, “His trustworthy love lasts forever.”


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I was suffering badly, so I cried out to the Lord for help. He answered me and set me free from my pain.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The Lord is with me, so I have nothing to fear. No one can harm me.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The Lord is with me, he will help me. I will see those who hate me defeated.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}It's better to rely on the Lord than to trust in people.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}It's better to rely on the Lord than to trust in the rich and powerful.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 118:9 }{\FT{“Rich and powerful”: literally, “princes.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Even though all the heathen nations surrounded me,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 118:10 }{\FT{Probably referring to Israel's king.}}} I defeated them with the help of the Lord.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 118:10 }{\FT{“With the help of the Lord”: literally, “in the name of the Lord.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They completely surrounded me, but even so I defeated them with the help of the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Like a swarm of bees they attacked, but their attack died out as quickly as burning thorn twigs. I defeated them with the help of the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}They tried as hard as they could to kill me, but the Lord helped me.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The Lord is my strength, and the one I sing about. He is the one who saves me.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Songs of celebration and victory come from the tents of the faithful. The Lord's powerful hand has done amazing things!


\par }{\Q \VS{16}The Lord raises his powerful hand in victory! The Lord's powerful hand has done amazing things!


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I'm not going to die. In fact I'm going to live, and let people know what the Lord has done.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Even though the Lord punished me severely, he did not let me die.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Open the gates of the faithful\FTNT{§}{{\FR 118:19 }{\FT{Referring to the gates of the Temple.}}} for me so I can go in and thank the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}These are the gates of the Lord where God's faithful people enter.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}I want to thank you for answering me and for being the one who saves me.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}The stone rejected by the builders has turned out to be the chief cornerstone.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}The Lord has done this, and it looks wonderful to us!


\par }{\Q \VS{24}The Lord made this day happen! We will celebrate and be happy for it!


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Lord, please save us! Lord, please make us successful!


\par }{\Q \VS{26}May the one who comes in the power of the Lord by blessed! We bless you from the house of the Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{27}The Lord is God, and his goodness shines on us.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 118:27 }{\FT{“His goodness shines on us”: literally, “he has given us light.”}}} Branches in hand, start the procession up towards the altar.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}You are my God, and I will thank you! You are my God, and I will praise you!


\par }{\Q \VS{29}Thank the Lord, for he is good! His trustworthy love lasts forever!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{119}{\D Aleph\FTNT{*}{{\FR 119: }{\FT{This Psalm is an acrostic, that is each group of stanzas begin with one letter of the Hebrew alphabet, from Aleph to Taw.}}}
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Happy are those who do what is right, who follow what the Lord says.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Happy are those who keep his commandments, who sincerely want to follow him.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They don't do what's wrong; they walk in his ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}You have ordered us to follow your instructions carefully.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}May I be reliable in the way I keep your rules!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Then I won't be ashamed when I compare what I do to what you have said.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I will praise you sincerely as I learn from you the right way to live.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}I will observe your laws. Please never give up on me!

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Beth

\par }
{\Q \VS{9}How does a young person remain pure? By following what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}I worship you sincerely; please don't let me stray from your commands.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I keep what you say in mind so I won't sin against you.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Thank you Lord! Teach me what to do!


\par }{\Q \VS{13}I repeat out loud your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}I enjoy your laws more than having plenty of money.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}I will think deeply about your teachings, and reflect on your ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}I will take pleasure in following your directions; I won't forget what you say.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Gimel

\par }
{\Q \VS{17}Be kind to your servant so I can live and follow what you teach.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Open my eyes so I may discover wonderful things in your law.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}I'm only here for a short time—don't let me miss what you have to say.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 119:19 }{\FT{“I'm only here for a short time—don't let me miss what you have to say”: literally, “I am an alien in the land; you must not hide your commandments from me.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{20}I'm always so keen to know your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}You reprimand those who are arrogant; those who don't follow your commandments are cursed.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Don't let me be scorned and insulted, for I have kept your laws.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Even leaders\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 119:23 }{\FT{Literally, “princes.”}}} sit down together and slander me, but I, your servant, will think seriously about your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Your laws make me happy—they are my wise advisors.

\par }{\D Daleth

\par }
{\Q \VS{25}I'm dying here, lying in the dust. Keep me alive as you promised.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}I explained my situation to you, and you answered me. Teach me to follow your directions.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Help me understand what your laws mean, and I will meditate on the wonderful things you do.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}I'm weeping because I'm so sad; please encourage me as you promised.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}Stop me fooling myself; kindly teach me your law.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}I have chosen to trust in you. I always pay attention to what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}I hold on to your teachings, Lord. Don't let me be ridiculed.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}I run to follow your commands, for you have expanded my mind!\FTNT{§}{{\FR 119:32 }{\FT{“Expanded my mind”: literally, “made wide my heart.” In Hebrew thinking of the time the heart was where thoughts occurred, not emotions.}}}

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D He

\par }
{\Q \VS{33}Teach me the meaning of your laws, and I will always keep them.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}Help me to understand so I can be totally committed to doing what you want.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}Lead me to follow your commands, for this is what I love to do


\par }{\Q \VS{36}Help me to concentrate on what you say\FTNT{*}{{\FR 119:36 }{\FT{Literally, “your testimonies.”}}} rather than on making a profit.


\par }{\Q \VS{37}Don't let me focus on things that are worthless. Help me live in your ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{38}Please keep your promise to me, your servant, that you made to those who worship you.


\par }{\Q \VS{39}Take away the shame I dread, for your law is good.


\par }{\Q \VS{40}I always want to do what you say. Please let me live, for you do what is right.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Waw

\par }
{\Q \VS{41}Lord, please love me with your trustworthy love; please give me the salvation you promised.


\par }{\Q \VS{42}Then I can reply to those who mock me, for I trust what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{43}Don't ever prevent me from being able to speak your words of truth, for I place my complete confidence in your just judgments.


\par }{\Q \VS{44}I will continue to follow your teachings, forever and ever.


\par }{\Q \VS{45}I shall live in freedom, for I have committed myself to obeying you.


\par }{\Q \VS{46}I will instruct kings about your laws—I won't be embarrassed.


\par }{\Q \VS{47}I'm so happy for your instructions. I love them!


\par }{\Q \VS{48}I lift up my hands in prayer, honoring your commandments. I will think deeply about all you say.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Zayin

\par }
{\Q \VS{49}Remember your promise to me, your servant. It's my only hope.


\par }{\Q \VS{50}This is what brings me encouragement in my misery—your promise keeps me going!


\par }{\Q \VS{51}Arrogant people mock me terribly, but I don't give up on your teachings.


\par }{\Q \VS{52}I think about the instructions you gave long ago, Lord, and they reassure me.


\par }{\Q \VS{53}I am angry with the wicked because they have rejected your law.


\par }{\Q \VS{54}Your instructions have been music to my ears\FTNT{†}{{\FR 119:54 }{\FT{“Music to my ears”: literally, “songs.”}}} wherever I have lived.


\par }{\Q \VS{55}At night I think about the kind of person you are, Lord, and do what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{56}For this is how I live my life—by following your principles.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Heth

\par }
{\Q \VS{57}Lord, you are mine! I have promised to do as you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{58}My whole being wants your blessing—please be kind to me, as you have promised!


\par }{\Q \VS{59}As I think about my life, I turn to follow what you have said.


\par }{\Q \VS{60}I hurry to keep your commandments without delay


\par }{\Q \VS{61}Even though wicked people try to tie me up, I won't forget your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{62}I get up in the middle of the night to thank you for your good laws.


\par }{\Q \VS{63}I identify with all those who follow you, those who do what you tell them.


\par }{\Q \VS{64}Lord, you love everyone on earth;\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 119:64 }{\FT{Literally, “your love, Lord, fills the earth.”}}} please teach me what to do.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Teth

\par }
{\Q \VS{65}Lord, you have been so good to me, your servant, as you have promised.


\par }{\Q \VS{66}Now teach me wise judgment and discernment because I believe in your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{67}Previously I was suffering, wandering away from you, but now I do what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{68}Since you are good, everything you do is good. Teach me your ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{69}Arrogant people smear my reputation with lies; but I whole-heartedly follow your commands.


\par }{\Q \VS{70}They are cold and unfeeling,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 119:70 }{\FT{Literally, “their hearts are thick like fat.”}}} but I love your law.


\par }{\Q \VS{71}The suffering\FTNT{*}{{\FR 119:71 }{\FT{Referring back to verse 67.}}} I went through was good for me, so I could think about what you have stipulated.


\par }{\Q \VS{72}What you tell me to do is worth more to me than much gold and silver.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Yodh

\par }
{\Q \VS{73}You created me and made me what I am; help me to learn and better understand your commandments.


\par }{\Q \VS{74}May those who worship you be happy when they see me, for I place my confidence in your word.


\par }{\Q \VS{75}Lord, I know that what you decide is right; you brought me down in order to help me because you are trustworthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{76}May your trustworthy love comfort me as you promised me, your servant.


\par }{\Q \VS{77}Be compassionate to me so I may live, for I love your teachings.


\par }{\Q \VS{78}Bring down those proud people who wronged me with their lies. I will spend time thinking about your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{79}Let those who follow you turn to me, those who understand your laws.


\par }{\Q \VS{80}May I be innocent in the way I keep your rules so that I won't be ashamed.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Kaph

\par }
{\Q \VS{81}I'm exhausted waiting for you to save me, but my hope is in your word.


\par }{\Q \VS{82}I strain my eyes looking for you to keep your promises, asking “When will you comfort me?”


\par }{\Q \VS{83}I've become like a wineskin that's been shriveled up by smoke, but I have not forgotten to do as you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{84}How long do I have to wait before you punish my persecutors?


\par }{\Q \VS{85}These arrogant people have dug pits to trap me, these people who don't care anything about your law.


\par }{\Q \VS{86}All your commands are trustworthy. Help me against these people who persecute me with their lies!


\par }{\Q \VS{87}They have almost killed me, but I have not given up on what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{88}Since you love me with your trustworthy love, don't let me die, so I can go on following the instructions you have given.

\par }{\D Lamedh

\par }
{\Q \VS{89}Your word, Lord, lasts forever. It stands firm in the heavens.


\par }{\Q \VS{90}Your faithfulness lasts for all generations, as permanent as the earth you created.


\par }{\Q \VS{91}Your judgments stand—they are as true today as ever—for everything serves your will.


\par }{\Q \VS{92}If I didn't love your teachings, my suffering\FTNT{†}{{\FR 119:92 }{\FT{Referring back to verses 71 and 67.
}}} would have killed me.


\par }{\Q \VS{93}I will never forget your instructions, for through them you give me life.


\par }{\Q \VS{94}I belong to you, so please save me! I am committed to following your rules.


\par }{\Q \VS{95}Even though wicked people are waiting to ambush and kill me, I will focus my mind on what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{96}I recognize that human perfection has its limits, but your law is limitless.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Mem

\par }
{\Q \VS{97}I really love your law! I meditate on it all day long.


\par }{\Q \VS{98}Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for I'm always thinking about your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{99}In fact I have a better insight than all of my teachers because I spend time concentrating on what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{100}I even understand more than the elders because I follow your directions.


\par }{\Q \VS{101}I avoid any course of action that leads to evil, because I want to remain faithful to your word.


\par }{\Q \VS{102}I have not disregarded your instructions because you yourself taught me what to do.


\par }{\Q \VS{103}Your words taste so sweet to me! They are sweeter than honey to my mouth.


\par }{\Q \VS{104}I gain understanding from what you say, so I hate any way of life that's just a lie.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Nun

\par }
{\Q \VS{105}Your word is a lamp that shows me where to walk, it's a light for my path.


\par }{\Q \VS{106}I've made a promise, and I will keep it: I will keep your rules that are always right!


\par }{\Q \VS{107}Lord, I'm really suffering! Please let me live, as you have promised.


\par }{\Q \VS{108}Lord, please accept my offerings of praise that I freely give you. Teach me your rules.


\par }{\Q \VS{109}My life is always at risk,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 119:109 }{\FT{Literally, “My life is continually in my hand.”}}} but I will not forget your law.


\par }{\Q \VS{110}Wicked people have set a trap for me, but I will not stray from your commandments.


\par }{\Q \VS{111}I will always hold on to what you say for your words make me really happy,


\par }{\Q \VS{112}I have made up my mind to follow your instructions to the very end.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Samekh

\par }
{\Q \VS{113}I hate people who are two-faced,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 119:113 }{\FT{Or “duplicitous.”}}} but I love your law.


\par }{\Q \VS{114}You keep me safe and you defend me, your word gives me reason to hope.


\par }{\Q \VS{115}Leave me alone, you evil people, and let me keep the commandments of my God.


\par }{\Q \VS{116}Support me, Lord, as you promised, so I can live. Don't let my hope turn into discouragement.


\par }{\Q \VS{117}Support me, so I can be saved and always pay attention to your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{118}You reject all those who don't follow your instructions—they're fooling themselves by living a lie.


\par }{\Q \VS{119}You treat the wicked people on earth as something worthless\FTNT{*}{{\FR 119:119 }{\FT{“Something worthless”: literally, “dross.”}}} to be discarded; therefore I love your laws.


\par }{\Q \VS{120}I have goose bumps thinking of you—I'm in awe! I'm scared of your judgments!

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Ayin

\par }
{\Q \VS{121}I have done what's fair and right, so please don't abandon me to my enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{122}Please promise you'll take care of me, your servant. Don't let these arrogant people mistreat me.


\par }{\Q \VS{123}I strain my eyes looking for your salvation, watching for you to fulfill your promise to make everything good.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 119:123 }{\FT{“Your promise to make everything good”: literally, “the word of your righteousness.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{124}Please treat me, your servant, according to your trustworthy love. Teach me what you want me to do.


\par }{\Q \VS{125}I am your servant. Please give me discernment so I can understand your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{126}Lord, it's time for you to act, for these people have broken your laws.


\par }{\Q \VS{127}This is why I love your commandments more than gold, more than the finest gold.


\par }{\Q \VS{128}All of your rules are right in every way, and so I hate any way of life that's just a lie.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Pe

\par }
{\Q \VS{129}Your laws are truly wonderful—that's why I keep them!


\par }{\Q \VS{130}Studying your words brings light so that even the uneducated\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 119:130 }{\FT{Literally, “simple.”}}} can understand.


\par }{\Q \VS{131}With keen desire\FTNT{§}{{\FR 119:131 }{\FT{Literally, “I open my mouth and pant.”}}} I long for what you have to say.


\par }{\Q \VS{132}Please pay attention to me and be kind to me, as you are with those who love you.


\par }{\Q \VS{133}Tell me by your word the way I should go, and don't let any kind of evil control me.


\par }{\Q \VS{134}Save me from cruel people so I can follow your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{135}Please look favorably on me, your servant, teach me what I should do.


\par }{\Q \VS{136}My tears stream down as I weep for those who don't keep your law.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Tsadhe

\par }
{\Q \VS{137}Lord, you are right, and what you decide is just!


\par }{\Q \VS{138}You have given your instructions which are fair and totally trustworthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{139}My devotion is burning me up inside because my enemies ignore your words.


\par }{\Q \VS{140}Your promises have been proved true, and that's why I, your servant, love them.


\par }{\Q \VS{141}I may be unimportant and looked down on, but I don't forget your commandments.


\par }{\Q \VS{142}Your goodness and justice last forever; and your law is the truth.


\par }{\Q \VS{143}When I have problems and sadness, your commands make me happy.


\par }{\Q \VS{144}Your laws are always right; help me to understand what they mean so I can live.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Qoph

\par }
{\Q \VS{145}My whole being is crying out! Lord, please answer me! I will follow your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{146}I pray to you, asking, “Please save me!” so I can do what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{147}I get up before dawn, and call out to you for help and put my hope in your word.


\par }{\Q \VS{148}During the night I stay awake, meditating on your word.


\par }{\Q \VS{149}Listen to what I have to say, Lord, because of your trustworthy love. Keep me alive, Lord, because you always do what's right.


\par }{\Q \VS{150}Evil people come running to attack me—they totally disregard your law.


\par }{\Q \VS{151}But you, Lord, are close beside me; all your commandments are true.


\par }{\Q \VS{152}Long ago I realized that your laws will last forever.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Resh

\par }
{\Q \VS{153}Please look at my suffering and save me! I have not forgotten your teachings.


\par }{\Q \VS{154}Plead my case, and save me as you promised! Let me live!


\par }{\Q \VS{155}Wicked people can't be saved, because they don't care about what you say.


\par }{\Q \VS{156}Lord, your mercy is so great! Because you are always fair, please let me live!


\par }{\Q \VS{157}Despite the many people who persecute and mistreat me, I have not strayed from your laws.


\par }{\Q \VS{158}Watching these unfaithful people disgusts me because they take no notice of your word.


\par }{\Q \VS{159}See how much I love your commandments, Lord. Please let me live because of your trustworthy love.


\par }{\Q \VS{160}Your word can be summed up in one word: truth! All of your just laws will last forever.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Shin

\par }
{\Q \VS{161}Leaders\FTNT{*}{{\FR 119:161 }{\FT{Literally, “princes.”}}} persecute me for no reason, but I am in awe only of your word.


\par }{\Q \VS{162}Your word makes me so happy—I'm like someone who discovers immense treasure.


\par }{\Q \VS{163}I hate and detest lies, but I love your teachings.


\par }{\Q \VS{164}I praise you seven times a day because your laws are good.


\par }{\Q \VS{165}Those who love your teachings have wonderful peace and nothing trips them up.


\par }{\Q \VS{166}Lord, I look forward to your salvation. I keep your commandments.


\par }{\Q \VS{167}I obey your laws and love them very much.


\par }{\Q \VS{168}I keep your commandments and laws because you see everything I do.

\par }{\BB \par }
{\D Taw

\par }
{\Q \VS{169}Lord, please listen to my sad cry; help me to understand, as you promised.


\par }{\Q \VS{170}Please hear what I have to say to you, and save me, as you promised.


\par }{\Q \VS{171}Let me pour out my words of praise, for you teach me what to do.


\par }{\Q \VS{172}I will sing about your word, for all your commandments are right.


\par }{\Q \VS{173}Please be ready to help me, for I have chosen to follow your instructions.


\par }{\Q \VS{174}I long for your salvation, Lord; your teachings make me happy.


\par }{\Q \VS{175}May I live my life in praise to you, and may your instructions help me.


\par }{\Q \VS{176}I have wandered away like a lost sheep, so please come looking for me, for I have not forgotten your commandments.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{120}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I called out to the Lord for help in all my troubles, and he answered me.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Lord, please save me from liars and cheats!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}What will the Lord do to you, you liars? How will he punish you?


\par }{\Q \VS{4}With the sharp arrows of a warrior and burning coals made from a broom tree.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I'm sorry for myself, because I live as a foreigner in Meshech, or among the tent-dwellers of Kedar.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 120:5 }{\FT{Far-off places, very distant from each other.
}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I have lived for far too long among people who hate peace.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I want peace, but when I talk of peace, they want war.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{121}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I look to the hills\FTNT{*}{{\FR 121:1 }{\FT{It seems most likely that this reference is to pagan worship which occurred on the “high places” of the hills, and that this is contrasted with the true source of help in verse 2—the Lord.}}}—but is that where my help comes from?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}He will not let you fall; he who watches over you won't fall asleep.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}In fact he who watches over you doesn't take naps or fall asleep.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The Lord keeps watch over you; the Lord protects you; he stands right beside you.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The sun won't hurt you during the day, nor the moon at night.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The Lord will protect you from all kinds of evil; he will keep you safe and sound.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord will look after you when you leave, and when you return, now and forever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{122}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I was so happy when they said to me, “Let's go the house of the Lord.”


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Now we're standing inside your gates, Jerusalem!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Jerusalem is built as a city where people can be together.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 122:3 }{\FT{“Where people can be together,” or, “that is closely joined together.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}All the tribes—the tribes of the Lord—go up there, following the command given to Israel to give thanks to the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}This is where the thrones are placed, where judgment is given, the thrones of the house of David.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Pray that Jerusalem may be at peace. May everyone who loves Jerusalem be kept safe.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}May there be peace within your walls, and safety within your fortresses.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}On behalf of my family and friends, I will now say, “May you be at peace.”


\par }{\Q \VS{9}On behalf of the house of the Lord our God, I pray that everything goes well for you.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{123}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I look up to you, the one who rules from heaven.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Just as servants look to their master, or a maid looks to her mistress, so we keep our eyes on you, Lord our God, waiting for you to be merciful to us.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Please have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy. We've had enough of people's contempt.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}We've had more than enough of the scorn of the proud, and the contempt of the arrogant.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{124}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}If the Lord hadn't been for us, what would have happened? Let everyone in Israel say:


\par }{\Q \VS{2}If the Lord hadn't been for us, what would have happened when people came and attacked us?


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They would have swallowed us alive when their anger raged against us.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Like a flood they would have swept over us; like a rushing torrent they would have submerged us.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They would have rushed over us like raging waters, drowning us.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Praise the Lord, who didn't hand us over to them as prey to be ripped apart by their teeth.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}We escaped from them like a bird flying out of a hunter's trap. The trap was broken and we flew away!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Our help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{125}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, for it is unshakeable and endures forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}In the same way that the mountains surround Jerusalem, the Lord surrounds his people, now and forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The wicked will not always rule\FTNT{*}{{\FR 125:3 }{\FT{Literally, “the scepter of wickedness.”}}} over the land of the faithful, otherwise the faithful might also end up doing wrong.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Lord, please do good to those who do good, those who sincerely do what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}But as for those who turn aside to follow their own crooked ways—the Lord will lead them away together with those who do evil.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 125:5 }{\FT{It seems that two groups are in view here: unfaithful Israelites, and heathen people who do wrong.}}} May Israel be at peace!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{126}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}When the Lord brought his people back from captivity to Zion, it was as if we were dreaming!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}We laughed so much, we sang for joy. The other nations said, “The Lord has done wonderful things for these people.”


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The Lord certainly has done wonderful things for us. How happy we were!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Please return and help us again, Lord. Renew us like streams of water that renew the Negev desert.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Those who weep as they go out to sow their seed will be singing in celebration when they carry the harvest home.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{127}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. A psalm of Solomon.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}If the Lord doesn't build the house, the work of the builders is futile. If the Lord doesn't guard the city, the work of the guards is pointless.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}It's useless to get up early in the morning and go to work, and stay late into the evening, worrying about earning enough to eat, when the Lord gives rest to those he loves.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Children certainly are a gift from the Lord, for a family is a blessing.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 127:3 }{\FT{Literally, “the reward of the fruit of the womb.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of a young man.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Happy is the father who fills his quiver\FTNT{†}{{\FR 127:5 }{\FT{A container for arrows.}}} with them! Such fathers will not be embarrassed when they confront their enemies at the city gate.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 127:5 }{\FT{“City gate.” The place where judgments were made, similar to a court.}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{128}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Happy are all those who worship the Lord, everyone who follows his ways!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You will eat what your own hands have produced. You will be happy and do well.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Your wife will be like a fruitful vine growing in your home. Your children will be like the shoots of an olive tree around your table.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}This will certainly be the Lord's blessing on those who worship him.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}May the Lord go on blessing you from Zion; may you see Jerusalem prosper all the days of your life.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}May you see your children's children. May Israel be at peace!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{129}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Many enemies have attacked from the time I was young. Let everyone in Israel say:


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Many enemies have attacked from the time I was young, but they never defeated me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}They beat me on my back, leaving long furrows as if it had been plowed by a farmer.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But the Lord does what is right: he has cut me free from the ropes of the wicked.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}May everyone who hates Zion be driven back in humiliating defeat.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}May they be like grass that grows on a roof that withers before it can be harvested,


\par }{\Q \VS{7}There's not enough even for a reaper to hold, not enough even for the binder to bind.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 129:7 }{\FT{The image is of something that's completely useless.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}May passers-by not say to them, “The blessing of the Lord be on you; we bless you in the name of the Lord.”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{130}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, I cry out to you from the depths of my pain.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 130:1 }{\FT{“Of my pain”: implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Please listen to my cry, and pay attention to what I'm asking.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Lord, if you kept a list of sins, who could escape being condemned?


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But you are forgiving so that we might respect you.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I'm waiting for the Lord, longingly waiting, for I trust in his word.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I long for the Lord to come, more than watchmen longing for the dawn to come, more than watchmen longing for the dawn to come.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for the Lord loves us with a trustworthy love and his salvation knows no limits.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}He will save Israel from every sin.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{131}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, I'm not proud or arrogant. I don't worry about things that are beyond me, matters that are far beyond my experience.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}On the contrary, I have chosen to be calm and quiet, like a weaned child with its mother. I am like a weaned child with its mother.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Israel, hope in the Lord, now and forever!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{132}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, remember David, and all that he went through.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}He made a promise to the Lord, a vow to the Mighty One of Jacob:


\par }{\Q \VS{3}“I will not go home, I will not go to bed,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I will not go to sleep, I will not take a nap,


\par }{\Q \VS{5}until I find a place where the Lord can live, a home for the Mighty One of Jacob.”


\par }{\Q \VS{6}In Ephrathah we received information about the Ark of Agreement, and we found it in fields near Jaar.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 132:6 }{\FT{Kiriath Jearim. See
}}{\XT{1 Samuel 7}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Let's go to the place where the Lord lives and bow down at his feet in worship.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Come, Lord, and enter your home,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 132:8 }{\FT{Literally, “resting place,” but with the sense that this is the usual place where someone resides, hence “home.”}}} together with your Ark of your power.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}May your priests wear goodness like clothing; may your faithful people shout for joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}For the sake of your servant David, don't reject the king you have chosen.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The Lord made a solemn promise to David, one he will never cancel—“I will put one of your descendants on your throne.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}If your sons keep to my agreement and my laws that I will teach them, then their sons will always occupy your throne.”


\par }{\Q \VS{13}For the Lord has chosen Zion, wanting to make his home there, saying:


\par }{\Q \VS{14}“This will always be my home; this is where I want to live.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}I will provide the people of the city with all they need; I will feed the poor.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}I will clothe its priests with salvation; and its faithful people will shout for joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I will make the line of David even more powerful.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 132:17 }{\FT{Literally, “I will make a horn sprout for David.”}}} I have prepared a lamp for my chosen king.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}I will humiliate his enemies, but the crown he wears will shine brightly.”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{133}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}How good, how delightful it is when people live together lin harmony!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}This is as precious as the oil used to anoint Aaron, running down from his head onto his beard, onto the collar of his clothes.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}It's like the dew of Mount Hermon that falls on Zion's mountains. That is where the Lord gave his blessing of life that lasts forever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{134}{\D A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord who worship at night in the house of the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Lift up your hands towards the holy place and praise the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}May the Lord bless you from Zion, he who made the heavens and the earth.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{135}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord's reputation!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 135:1 }{\FT{Or “character”: literally, “name.” Also verse 3.}}} Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord


\par }{\Q \VS{2}who worship in the house of the Lord, in the courts of our God.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; sing praises to his character because it is wonderful!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}For the Lord has chosen Jacob for himself; Israel as his very own.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I know how great the Lord is—our Lord is greater than all gods.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The Lord does whatever he wants throughout heaven and earth, on the seas and in the ocean depths.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He causes the clouds to rise all over the earth, he makes lightning flash and give rain, he sends the winds from his storehouses.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}He struck down the firstborn of Egypt, both human and animal.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He did wonderful miracles among you in Egypt, against Pharaoh and all his servants.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}He struck down many nations, he killed powerful kings, such as\FTNT{†}{{\FR 135:10 }{\FT{“Such as”: implied.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Sihon, king of the Amorites, Og, king of Bashan, and all the kings who ruled in Canaan.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}He handed over their lands to Israel, his special people, for them to possess.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Your reputation,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 135:13 }{\FT{“Reputation”: literally, “name.”}}} Lord, stands forever; you, Lord, are remembered for all generations.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The Lord will vindicate his people; he will show compassion to those who follow him.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}The idols of the foreign nations are only objects of silver and gold, made by human hands.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}They have mouths, but can't speak; they have eyes, but can't see.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}They have ears, but can't hear; they can't even breathe!\FTNT{§}{{\FR 135:17 }{\FT{Literally, “indeed there is no breath in their mouth.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Those who make idols will become just like them, and so will everyone who trusts in them.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}People of Israel, praise the Lord! Descendants of Aaron,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 135:19 }{\FT{That is, the priests.}}} praise the Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Levites, praise the Lord! Everyone who worships the Lord, praise the Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Praise the Lord from Zion, for he lives in Jerusalem! Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{136}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Thank the Lord, because he is good! For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Thank the Lord, the God of gods! For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Thank the Lord of lords! For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}To him who alone does amazing things! For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}To him who knew how to make the heavens. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}To him who spread out the earth over the waters. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}To him who made the lights above. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The sun to rule the day. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The moon and stars to rule the night. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}To him who struck down the firstborn in Egypt. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}He led his people out of Egypt.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 136:11 }{\FT{“Out of Egypt”: literally, “from among them.”}}} For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}He did this with his strong hand and outstretched arm. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}To him who parted the Red Sea. For his trustworthy love lasts forever,


\par }{\Q \VS{14}And led Israel through it. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}But threw Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}To him who led his people through the wilderness. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}To him who struck down powerful kings. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}To him who killed powerful kings. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Sihon, king of the Amorites. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Og, king of Bashan. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}He gave Israel\FTNT{†}{{\FR 136:21 }{\FT{Implied.}}} their land to possess. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}He granted ownership to his servant Israel. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}He remembered us even in our humiliation. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}He rescued us from our enemies. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}To the one who provides food for every living creature. For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Thank the God of heaven! For his trustworthy love lasts forever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{137}{\Q \VerseOne{1}When we sat down by the rivers of Babylon we wept as we remembered Zion.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}We hung up our harps on the willow trees.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}For those who had taken us captive asked us for a song—our tormentors wanted us to sing a happy song from Jerusalem.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}But how could we sing a song dedicated to the Lord in a pagan land?


\par }{\Q \VS{5}If I forget Jerusalem, may my right hand forget how to play;\FTNT{*}{{\FR 137:5 }{\FT{Play music.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}May my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I don't remember you—if I don't consider Jerusalem my greatest joy.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 137:6 }{\FT{The meaning is that it would be an expression of unfaithfulness to the Lord to sing holy songs meant for Temple worship in a pagan country, and that Jerusalem needed to be still considered as God's holy city.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Lord, please remember what the people of Edom did on the day Jerusalem fell, the ones who said “Tear it down! Destroy it down to its foundations!”


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Daughter of Babylon, you will be destroyed! Happy is the one who pays you back, who does to you what you did to us!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Happy is the one who grabs your children and smashes them against the rocks!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{138}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I thank you with my whole being; I sing your praises before the heavenly beings.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 138:1 }{\FT{The word used here is “elohim” which would usually be translated as “gods,” but this seems strange here since the gods worshiped by pagans do not exist. It could be translated “false gods,” but why would the psalmist be singing God's praises before them? The Septuagint translates the words as “angels,” the Syriac has “kings,” and in the Targum it is “judges.” Other versions have “divine beings,” “the powers in heaven,” “the mighty,” etc. Note also the use of this word in
}}{\XT{Psalms 82:1}}{\FT{.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I bow down before your holy Temple, and I am thankful because of who you are—for your trustworthy love and faithfulness—and for the fact that your promises are even greater than what people expect of you.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 138:2 }{\FT{Following the thought that here the reference is to “name” as “reputation.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{3}On the day I cried out to you for help, you answered me. You encouraged me and made me strong.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}All the kings of the earth will praise you, Lord, for they have heard what you have said.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They will sing about what the Lord has done and about the great glory of the Lord.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Though the Lord is high above, he pays attention to the lowly; but he recognizes the proud a long way off.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Even though I walk into a great deal of trouble, you protect me. You reach out to defend me from the anger of those who hate me—your strong hand saves me.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord vindicates me! Lord, your trustworthy love lasts forever! Don't give up on what you have made!\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 138:8 }{\FT{This probably refers to the psalmist, but it could also mean the people of Israel, or God's creation generally.}}}


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{139}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, you have examined me from the inside out—you know everything about me!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}You know when I sit down and when I get up. You know what I'm thinking even when I'm a long way away.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}You observe where I go and when I rest. You're familiar with everything I do.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Lord, you even know what I'm going to say before I say it.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You're always there—behind me, in front of me, and all around me. You place your caring hand on me.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}This amazing knowledge\FTNT{*}{{\FR 139:6 }{\FT{God's knowledge of the psalmist.}}} you have is far beyond me, way beyond my understanding!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Where can I go that you're not already there? Where can I run to escape your presence?


\par }{\Q \VS{8}If I go up to heaven, you are there. If I lie down in Sheol,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 139:8 }{\FT{The place of the dead.}}} look—you are there too!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}If I were to fly away on wings of the dawn to the east; if I were to live on the far western shore of the sea,


\par }{\Q \VS{10}even there your hand would lead me, your right hand would support me.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}If I asked the darkness to hide me, and light to become night around me,


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Even darkness would not be dark for you, and the night would be bright as day, for darkness is like light to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}You made me from the inside out,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 139:13 }{\FT{Literally, “kidneys,” as representative of internal organs.}}} shaping me in my mother's womb.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}I praise you for making me in such an awesome and wonderful way. What you do is incredible—I realize this completely!


\par }{\Q \VS{15}My growing body\FTNT{§}{{\FR 139:15 }{\FT{“My growing body,” literally, “my bones.”}}} was not hidden from you as I was formed in secret, as I was intricately put together “in the depths of the earth.”\FTNT{*}{{\FR 139:15 }{\FT{“In the depths of the earth”: this may relate to a belief that children were formed in the earth before entering the womb, or it may simply be a metaphor for the womb. In any case the point being made is that God observed the process that is hidden from human eyes.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{16}You saw me as an embryo, and in your book all my days were written down—the days that were made for me before any of them existed.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}God, your thoughts are so valuable\FTNT{†}{{\FR 139:17 }{\FT{Or “challenging.”}}} to me! Taken together, they can't be counted!


\par }{\Q \VS{18}If I tried to count them, they would be more than every grain of sand. Yet when I awake\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 139:18 }{\FT{“Awake”: or “come to an end of counting.”}}} I am still with you.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}God, if you would only kill the wicked! Murderers,\FTNT{§}{{\FR 139:19 }{\FT{Literally, “men of blood.”}}} get away from me!


\par }{\Q \VS{20}When they speak of you they're being deceptively evil. Since they are your enemies, they call on you in vain.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Lord, don't I hate those who hate you? I despise those who rebel against you!


\par }{\Q \VS{22}I hate them with absolute hatred—they have become my enemies!


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Examine me carefully, God, so you can be sure of my true feelings. Check me out so you can know what I really think.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Please show me if I'm following any kind of idol, and lead me along the path of eternal life.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{140}{\D For the music director. A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, please save me from those who do evil; protect me especially from those who are violent!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Their minds are busy plotting evil things, stirring up trouble all day long.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Their tongues are as sharp as those of snakes; viper's venom is on their lips. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Lord, please keep me from falling into the hands of the wicked; protect me especially from those who are violent, who are plotting my downfall.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Proud people have hidden a trap for me—they have strung out a net on the path, they have set snares to catch me. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I told the Lord, “You are my God! Lord, please listen to my cries for help!”


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Lord God, my powerful Savior, you covered my head like a helmet\FTNT{*}{{\FR 140:7 }{\FT{“Like a helmet”: implied.}}} on the day of battle.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}God, don't allow the wicked to get what they want—don't let them be successful in what they plan so they don't become proud. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}May the harm spoken against me by those who surround me fall back on them,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 140:9 }{\FT{The meaning of the Hebrew is unclear.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Let burning coals rain down on them! Let them be thrown into the fire, or into bottomless pits, never to rise again.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Don't let people who slander others live in our land. May disaster strike down violent people.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Yet I know the Lord defends the rights of those who are persecuted, and gives justice to the poor.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Truly those who live right are thankful for the kind of person you are,\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 140:13 }{\FT{“Kind of person you are”: literally, “your name.”}}} and those who are honest\FTNT{§}{{\FR 140:13 }{\FT{“Those who are honest”: literally “the upright.”}}} will live in your presence.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{141}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, I'm calling out to you! Please hurry up and help me! Please listen to me when I cry out to you!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}May my prayer be like incense before you, my uplifted hands like an evening offering.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Lord, make sure I don't say anything I shouldn't—keep a watch over my conversations.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Don't let me think about evil things or take part in doing anything wrong with wicked people. I won't join in eating fancy food at their feasts.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 141:4 }{\FT{This may refer to pagan festivals.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Let a good person punish me in love—let them correct me. It will be like an anointing—I won't refuse it. But I still pray against those who do evil.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 141:5 }{\FT{The Hebrew in this verse and the next is not clear.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They shall be thrown down by the power of the rock that judges them, and then they will recognize what I said was true!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Just as the earth is broken up by the plow, so shall their bones be scattered at the mouth of Sheol.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 141:7 }{\FT{The place of the dead. This may mean they do not receive a proper burial.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{8}But I'm looking to you, Lord God, for I find protection in you. Don't let me die!


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Keep me safe from the traps they have set to catch me, from the snares of evil people.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Let them fall into their own traps while I pass by unharmed.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{142}{\D A maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A prayer.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I call out to the Lord for help; pleading with the Lord for mercy.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I pour out my complaints before him; I tell him what's troubling me.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}When I'm totally discouraged, you know the direction I should take. But whichever way I go, people set traps for me.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I look to my right for someone to support me—but no one pays me any attention. There's no safe place for me—no one cares about me at all.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I cry out to you, Lord, for help, saying, “You are the one who keeps me safe; you are all I need in life.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 142:5 }{\FT{Literally, “you are my portion in the land of the living.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Please listen to my sad cry, for I'm feeling very low. Please save me from those who are after me, for they're too strong for me.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Release me from my prison so I can praise you for the person you are! Those who live right will gather round me because you have treated me so well.”


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{143}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Lord, please hear my prayer. Because you are faithful, please listen to my appeal for mercy. Answer me because you do what is right!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Please don't place me, your servant, on trial, because nobody is innocent in your sight.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The enemy has chased me down. He crushes me to the ground. He makes me live in darkness like those who died a long time ago.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}I sense myself fading away inside; I am overwhelmed by a sense of desolation.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}I think of days long ago, and as I meditate I talk to myself about all you have done, I reflect on what you have accomplished.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}I stretch out my hands to you, thirsting for you like dried-out land. Selah.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Please answer me quickly, Lord! I'm dying! Don't turn away otherwise I'll be just like those who are going down into the grave.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Tell me every morning about your trustworthy love, because I put my confidence in you. Show me the way I should go, because I dedicate myself to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Save me from those who hate me, Lord—I run to you for protection.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Teach me your will for you are my God. May your spirit of goodness lead me and make my way smooth.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Because of the kind of person you are, let me go on living. Because you always do what's right, get me out of the trouble I'm in.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}In your trustworthy love, get rid of those who hate me, destroy all my enemies, for I am your servant.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{144}{\D A psalm of David.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord—he is my rock. He trains me for battle, he gives me skill for war.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}He is the one who faithfully loves me, protects me, and defends me. He is the one who rescues me, shields me from danger, and keeps me safe. He defeats nations and places them under my rule.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Lord, what are human beings that you should care about them? What are people that you should concern yourself with them?


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Humanity is like a breath; their lives are like a passing shadow.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Part your heavens and come down.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 144:5 }{\FT{See
}}{\XT{Psalms 18:9}}{\FT{.}}} Touch the mountains so that they give off smoke.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Scatter your enemies\FTNT{†}{{\FR 144:6 }{\FT{“You enemies”: implied.}}} with flashes of lightning! Let your arrows fly and send them running in confusion!


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Stretch down your hand from heaven and set me free. Rescue me from raging waters, from the oppression of foreign enemies.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}They are such liars, even telling lies under oath.\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 144:8 }{\FT{Literally, “their right hand is a right hand of falsehood”—referring to the practice of raising the right hand when swearing an oath.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{9}God, I will sing a new song to you, accompanied by a ten-stringed harp,


\par }{\Q \VS{10}to you, the one who gives victory to kings. You saved your servant David from death by the sword.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Set me free. Rescue me from the oppression of foreign enemies. They are such liars, even telling lies under oath.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Then our sons will grow up like plants in their youth and become mature, and our daughters will be like beautiful pillars carved to support a palace.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Our storehouses will be full of all kinds of crops; our flocks of sheep will grow by thousands, increasing by tens of thousands in the pastures.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Our cattle will grow fat. No one will break down our city walls, there will be no exile, no cries of mourning in our town squares.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}The people who live like this will be happy. Happy are those whose God is the Lord.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{145}{\D A psalm of David. A song of praise.
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}I will glorify you, my God and King! I will praise who you are forever and ever!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I will praise you every day; I will praise your character forever and ever!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The Lord is great and deserves much praise! His greatness cannot be measured!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Let every generation tell the next all that you do, sharing the stories of your amazing miracles!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}They will speak\FTNT{*}{{\FR 145:5 }{\FT{“They will speak”: Qumran text.}}} of your majesty, your glorious splendor, and I will meditate on the wonderful things you have done.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}They will speak of the power of your awesome actions, and I will say how wonderful you are.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}They will explain to everyone how famous you are for your tremendous goodness, and joyfully celebrate how you always do what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord is gracious and merciful, not easily angered, and full of trustworthy love.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The Lord is good to everyone, and he shows mercy to all his created beings.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}All the created beings will thank you, Lord, and all who faithfully follow you will praise you.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}They will praise the glory of your kingdom, and talk about your power.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}They will explain to people your wonderful miracles, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Your kingdom never ends, and your rule continues for all generations. What the Lord promises can always be trusted; he is merciful in all he does.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 145:13 }{\FT{The second half of this verse is found in the Septuagint and the Syriac version, and also in the Qumran text. Since this poem is an acrostic, each verse beginning with successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet, these lines provide the missing letter (nun).}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The Lord helps up all those who fall down; he lifts up all those who are bowed down.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}All eyes are on you, waiting in hope, and you give food at just the right time.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}You give generously and satisfy the needs of every living thing.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}The Lord does right in everything—his actions are always trustworthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}The Lord is close to all who ask for his help, to all who ask in sincerity.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}He satisfies the needs of those who follow him. He hears their cries for help and he saves them.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}The Lord takes care of all those who love him, but he will destroy all those who are wicked.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}I will speak in praise of the Lord, and may everyone honor his holy character, forever and ever.


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{146}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! With my whole being I praise the Lord!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I will praise the Lord while I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have breath.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Don't put your confidence in human leaders—they can't save you.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Once they breathe no more, they go back to dust. On that very day everything they planned dies with them.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Happy are those who have the God of Jacob to help them—their hope is in the Lord their God—


\par }{\Q \VS{6}the one who made heaven and earth, and the sea along with everything it contains. He is trustworthy forever.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He makes sure the oppressed receive justice. He gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets the prisoners free.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The Lord makes the blind see. The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down. The Lord loves those who do what's right.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The Lord takes care of strangers among us. He looks after widows and orphans. But he makes life difficult for the wicked.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The Lord will reign forever. Zion, he will be your God for all generations. Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{147}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord, for it's good to sing praises to our God! Praise is wonderful and beautiful!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The Lord is rebuilding Jerusalem, gathering together the people of Israel who have been scattered.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}He heals the broken-hearted, and bandages the wounded.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}He knows how many stars he made, and commands all of them by name.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Our Lord is great! His power is immense! There's no limit to what he understands!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The Lord helps those who are bowed down to get up; but he grinds the wicked into the ground.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Sing thanks to the Lord! Sing praises to our God with a harp!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}He covers the sky with clouds to bring rain to the earth, and makes the grass grow on the hills.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}He gives food to the animals, and to the baby ravens when they call.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The Lord doesn't appreciate the strength of war-horses or value human power.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 147:10 }{\FT{The psalmist is contrasting reliance on human force such as a powerful army with God, the true source of strength, as shown by the following verse.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{11}What the Lord values are those who follow him, those who put their confidence in his trustworthy love.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Jerusalem, praise the Lord! Zion, praise your God!


\par }{\Q \VS{13}He makes the bars on your city gates strong, and blesses your children around you.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}He keeps the borders of your land safe from attack; he provides you with plenty of the finest wheat.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}He sends his commands around the world—they're quickly implemented.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}He sends snow as white as wool, and scatters frost like ashes.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}He throws hail like stones.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 147:17 }{\FT{“Stones”: literally, “pieces of bread.”}}} Who can stand the cold he sends?


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Then he sends out his command and it melts; he blows\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 147:18 }{\FT{“Blows”: or, “sends his winds.”}}} on it and the water flows.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}He proclaims his word to Jacob; his rules and laws to Israel.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}He has not done this for any other nation—they don't know his laws. Praise the Lord!


\par }{\BB \par }


\PsalmChap{148}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from heaven; praise him in the heights above!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his heavenly armies!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Praise him, sun and moon! Praise him, all you shining stars!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Praise him, highest heavens, and the waters above the heavens!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 148:4 }{\FT{Understood as the heavenly dome above, where rain came from.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Let them all praise the Lord and his nature,\FTNT{†}{{\FR 148:5 }{\FT{Literally, “name.”}}} for he gave the order and they were created.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}He placed them in their positions forever and ever; he established a law that will never end.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Praise the Lord from the earth, and creatures from all the depths of the seas,


\par }{\Q \VS{8}lightning\FTNT{‡}{{\FR 148:8 }{\FT{Or “fire.”}}} and hail, snow and clouds, and stormy wind—everything that does as he commands.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Mountains and all the hills, fruit trees and all the trees of the forest,


\par }{\Q \VS{10}wild animals and all livestock, crawling animals and wild birds,


\par }{\Q \VS{11}earthly kings and all peoples, leaders and rulers of the world,


\par }{\Q \VS{12}young men and women, old people and children—


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Let them all praise the Lord, for his reputation\FTNT{§}{{\FR 148:13 }{\FT{Literally, “name.”}}} is unequalled; his glory is above anything on earth or in heaven.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}He has given his people a source of strength,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 148:14 }{\FT{Literally, “he has raised up a horn for his people.”}}} bringing praise to his faithful followers, the people of Israel who are dear to him. Praise the Lord!


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\PsalmChap{149}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! Sing a new song to the Lord! Praise him wherever his faithful followers gather!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Let Israel celebrate their Creator; let the people of Zion be happy in their King.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Praise his nature with dancing; sing praises to him, accompanied by tambourine and harp.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}For the Lord enjoys his people; he honors the oppressed with salvation.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Let the faithful celebrate how he honors them; let them sing happily even from their beds.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}May their praises of God always be on their lips, a double-edged sword in their hands,


\par }{\Q \VS{7}ready to take revenge on the nations, to punish the foreign peoples,


\par }{\Q \VS{8}to imprison their kings in shackles and their leaders in iron chains,


\par }{\Q \VS{9}to impose the judgment decreed against them. This is an honor for all his faithful followers. Praise the Lord!


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\PsalmChap{150}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Praise the Lord! Praise God in his holy place!\FTNT{*}{{\FR 150:1 }{\FT{Or “sanctuary.”}}} Praise him in the great expanse of heaven!


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Praise him for the amazing things he does! Praise him for how wonderfully great he is!


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Praise him with the sound of the trumpet, praise him with harp and lyre!


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with strings and flutes!


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with really loud cymbals!


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Let everything that breathes praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!


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