A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my light and my salvation-- so why should I be afraid? The LORD protects me from danger-- so why should I tremble?
2 When evil people come to destroy me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall.
3 Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will know no fear. Even if they attack me, I remain confident.
4 The one thing I ask of the LORD-- the thing I seek most-- is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD's perfections and meditating in his Temple.
5 For he will conceal me there when troubles come; he will hide me in his sanctuary. He will place me out of reach on a high rock.
6 Then I will hold my head high, above my enemies who surround me. At his Tabernacle I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy, singing and praising the LORD with music.
7 Listen to my pleading, O LORD. Be merciful and answer me!
8 My heart has heard you say, "Come and talk with me." And my heart responds, "LORD, I am coming."
9 Do not hide yourself from me. Do not reject your servant in anger. You have always been my helper. Don't leave me now; don't abandon me, O God of my salvation!
10 Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will hold me close.
11 Teach me how to live, O LORD. Lead me along the path of honesty, for my enemies are waiting for me to fall.
12 Do not let me fall into their hands. For they accuse me of things I've never done and breathe out violence against me.
13 Yet I am confident that I will see the LORD's goodness while I am here in the land of the living.
14 Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Psalm 26 (NLT)
A psalm of David.
1 Declare me innocent, O LORD, for I have acted with integrity; I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.
2 Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and affections.
3 For I am constantly aware of your unfailing love, and I have lived according to your truth.
4 I do not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites.
5 I hate the gatherings of those who do evil, and I refuse to join in with the wicked.
6 I wash my hands to declare my innocence. I come to your altar, O LORD,
7 singing a song of thanksgiving and telling of all your miracles.
8 I love your sanctuary, LORD, the place where your glory shines.
9 Don't let me suffer the fate of sinners. Don't condemn me along with murderers.
10 Their hands are dirty with wicked schemes, and they constantly take bribes.
11 But I am not like that; I do what is right. So in your mercy, save me.
12 I have taken a stand, and I will publicly praise the LORD.
1 Declare me innocent, O LORD, for I have acted with integrity; I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.
2 Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and affections.
3 For I am constantly aware of your unfailing love, and I have lived according to your truth.
4 I do not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites.
5 I hate the gatherings of those who do evil, and I refuse to join in with the wicked.
6 I wash my hands to declare my innocence. I come to your altar, O LORD,
7 singing a song of thanksgiving and telling of all your miracles.
8 I love your sanctuary, LORD, the place where your glory shines.
9 Don't let me suffer the fate of sinners. Don't condemn me along with murderers.
10 Their hands are dirty with wicked schemes, and they constantly take bribes.
11 But I am not like that; I do what is right. So in your mercy, save me.
12 I have taken a stand, and I will publicly praise the LORD.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Psalm 25 (NLT)
Interlude
A psalm of David.
1 To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul.
2 I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.
3 No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.
4 Show me the path where I should walk, O LORD; point out the right road for me to follow.
5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.
6 Remember, O LORD, your unfailing love and compassion, which you have shown from long ages past.
7 Forgive the rebellious sins of my youth; look instead through the eyes of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.
8 The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray.
9 He leads the humble in what is right, teaching them his way.
10 The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees.
11 For the honor of your name, O LORD, forgive my many, many sins.
12 Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose.
13 They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the Promised Land.
14 Friendship with the LORD is reserved for those who fear him. With them he shares the secrets of his covenant.
15 My eyes are always looking to the LORD for help, for he alone can rescue me from the traps of my enemies.
16 Turn to me and have mercy on me, for I am alone and in deep distress.
17 My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all!
18 Feel my pain and see my trouble. Forgive all my sins.
19 See how many enemies I have, and how viciously they hate me!
20 Protect me! Rescue my life from them! Do not let me be disgraced, for I trust in you.
21 May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in you.
22 O God, ransom Israel from all its troubles.
A psalm of David.
1 To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul.
2 I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.
3 No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.
4 Show me the path where I should walk, O LORD; point out the right road for me to follow.
5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.
6 Remember, O LORD, your unfailing love and compassion, which you have shown from long ages past.
7 Forgive the rebellious sins of my youth; look instead through the eyes of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.
8 The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray.
9 He leads the humble in what is right, teaching them his way.
10 The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees.
11 For the honor of your name, O LORD, forgive my many, many sins.
12 Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose.
13 They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the Promised Land.
14 Friendship with the LORD is reserved for those who fear him. With them he shares the secrets of his covenant.
15 My eyes are always looking to the LORD for help, for he alone can rescue me from the traps of my enemies.
16 Turn to me and have mercy on me, for I am alone and in deep distress.
17 My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all!
18 Feel my pain and see my trouble. Forgive all my sins.
19 See how many enemies I have, and how viciously they hate me!
20 Protect me! Rescue my life from them! Do not let me be disgraced, for I trust in you.
21 May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in you.
22 O God, ransom Israel from all its troubles.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Psalms 23-24 (NLT)
Psalm 23
A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I have everything I need.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.
4 Even when I walk through the dark valley of death,[a] I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.
Footnotes:
Psalm 23:4 Or the darkest valley.
Psalm 24
A psalm of David.
1 The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.
2 For he laid the earth's foundation on the seas and built it on the ocean depths.
3 Who may climb the mountain of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place?
4 Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies.
5 They will receive the LORD's blessing and have right standing with God their savior.
6 They alone may enter God's presence and worship the God of Israel.[a]
Interlude
7 Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter.
8 Who is the King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, invincible in battle.
9 Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter.
10 Who is the King of glory? The LORD Almighty-- he is the King of glory.
Footnotes:
Psalm 24:6 Hebrew of Jacob.
A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I have everything I need.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.
3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.
4 Even when I walk through the dark valley of death,[a] I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.
Footnotes:
Psalm 23:4 Or the darkest valley.
Psalm 24
A psalm of David.
1 The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.
2 For he laid the earth's foundation on the seas and built it on the ocean depths.
3 Who may climb the mountain of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place?
4 Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies.
5 They will receive the LORD's blessing and have right standing with God their savior.
6 They alone may enter God's presence and worship the God of Israel.[a]
Interlude
7 Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter.
8 Who is the King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, invincible in battle.
9 Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter.
10 Who is the King of glory? The LORD Almighty-- he is the King of glory.
Footnotes:
Psalm 24:6 Hebrew of Jacob.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Psalm 22 (NLT)
For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be sung to the tune Doe of the Dawn.
1 My God, my God! Why have you forsaken me? Why do you remain so distant? Why do you ignore my cries for help?
2 Every day I call to you, my God, but you do not answer. Every night you hear my voice, but I find no relief.
3 Yet you are holy. The praises of Israel surround your throne.
4 Our ancestors trusted in you, and you rescued them.
5 You heard their cries for help and saved them. They put their trust in you and were never disappointed.
6 But I am a worm and not a man. I am scorned and despised by all!
7 Everyone who sees me mocks me. They sneer and shake their heads, saying,
8 "Is this the one who relies on the LORD? Then let the LORD save him! If the LORD loves him so much, let the LORD rescue him!"
9 Yet you brought me safely from my mother's womb and led me to trust you when I was a nursing infant.
10 I was thrust upon you at my birth. You have been my God from the moment I was born.
11 Do not stay so far from me, for trouble is near, and no one else can help me.
12 My enemies surround me like a herd of bulls; fierce bulls of Bashan have hemmed me in!
13 Like roaring lions attacking their prey, they come at me with open mouths.
14 My life is poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax, melting within me.
15 My strength has dried up like sunbaked clay. My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. You have laid me in the dust and left me for dead.
16 My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet.
17 I can count every bone in my body. My enemies stare at me and gloat.
18 They divide my clothes among themselves and throw dice[a] for my garments.
19 O LORD, do not stay away! You are my strength; come quickly to my aid!
20 Rescue me from a violent death; spare my precious life from these dogs.
21 Snatch me from the lions' jaws, and from the horns of these wild oxen.
22 Then I will declare the wonder of your name to my brothers and sisters. I will praise you among all your people.
23 Praise the LORD, all you who fear him! Honor him, all you descendants of Jacob! Show him reverence, all you descendants of Israel!
24 For he has not ignored the suffering of the needy. He has not turned and walked away. He has listened to their cries for help.
25 I will praise you among all the people; I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you.
26 The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the LORD will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy.
27 The whole earth will acknowledge the LORD and return to him. People from every nation will bow down before him.
28 For the LORD is king! He rules all the nations.
29 Let the rich of the earth feast and worship. Let all mortals--those born to die--bow down in his presence.
30 Future generations will also serve him. Our children will hear about the wonders of the Lord.
31 His righteous acts will be told to those yet unborn. They will hear about everything he has done.
Footnotes:
Psalm 22:18 Hebrew cast lots.
1 My God, my God! Why have you forsaken me? Why do you remain so distant? Why do you ignore my cries for help?
2 Every day I call to you, my God, but you do not answer. Every night you hear my voice, but I find no relief.
3 Yet you are holy. The praises of Israel surround your throne.
4 Our ancestors trusted in you, and you rescued them.
5 You heard their cries for help and saved them. They put their trust in you and were never disappointed.
6 But I am a worm and not a man. I am scorned and despised by all!
7 Everyone who sees me mocks me. They sneer and shake their heads, saying,
8 "Is this the one who relies on the LORD? Then let the LORD save him! If the LORD loves him so much, let the LORD rescue him!"
9 Yet you brought me safely from my mother's womb and led me to trust you when I was a nursing infant.
10 I was thrust upon you at my birth. You have been my God from the moment I was born.
11 Do not stay so far from me, for trouble is near, and no one else can help me.
12 My enemies surround me like a herd of bulls; fierce bulls of Bashan have hemmed me in!
13 Like roaring lions attacking their prey, they come at me with open mouths.
14 My life is poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax, melting within me.
15 My strength has dried up like sunbaked clay. My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. You have laid me in the dust and left me for dead.
16 My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet.
17 I can count every bone in my body. My enemies stare at me and gloat.
18 They divide my clothes among themselves and throw dice[a] for my garments.
19 O LORD, do not stay away! You are my strength; come quickly to my aid!
20 Rescue me from a violent death; spare my precious life from these dogs.
21 Snatch me from the lions' jaws, and from the horns of these wild oxen.
22 Then I will declare the wonder of your name to my brothers and sisters. I will praise you among all your people.
23 Praise the LORD, all you who fear him! Honor him, all you descendants of Jacob! Show him reverence, all you descendants of Israel!
24 For he has not ignored the suffering of the needy. He has not turned and walked away. He has listened to their cries for help.
25 I will praise you among all the people; I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you.
26 The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the LORD will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy.
27 The whole earth will acknowledge the LORD and return to him. People from every nation will bow down before him.
28 For the LORD is king! He rules all the nations.
29 Let the rich of the earth feast and worship. Let all mortals--those born to die--bow down in his presence.
30 Future generations will also serve him. Our children will hear about the wonders of the Lord.
31 His righteous acts will be told to those yet unborn. They will hear about everything he has done.
Footnotes:
Psalm 22:18 Hebrew cast lots.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Psalms 20-21 (NLT)
Psalm 20
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 In times of trouble, may the LORD respond to your cry. May the God of Israel[a] keep you safe from all harm.
2 May he send you help from his sanctuary and strengthen you from Jerusalem.[b]
3 May he remember all your gifts and look favorably on your burnt offerings.
Interlude
4 May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans.
5 May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God. May the LORD answer all your prayers.
6 Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed king. He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power.
7 Some nations boast of their armies and weapons,[c] but we boast in the LORD our God.
8 Those nations will fall down and collapse, but we will rise up and stand firm.
9 Give victory to our king, O LORD! Respond to our cry for help.
Footnotes:
Psalm 20:1 Hebrew of Jacob.
Psalm 20:2 Hebrew Zion.
Psalm 20:7 Hebrew chariots and horses.
Psalm 21
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 How the king rejoices in your strength, O LORD! He shouts with joy because of your victory.
2 For you have given him his heart's desire; you have held back nothing that he requested.
Interlude
3 You welcomed him back with success and prosperity. You placed a crown of finest gold on his head.
4 He asked you to preserve his life, and you have granted his request. The days of his life stretch on forever.
5 Your victory brings him great honor, and you have clothed him with splendor and majesty.
6 You have endowed him with eternal blessings. You have given him the joy of being in your presence.
7 For the king trusts in the LORD. The unfailing love of the Most High will keep him from stumbling.
8 You will capture all your enemies. Your strong right hand will seize all those who hate you.
9 You will destroy them as in a flaming furnace when you appear. The LORD will consume them in his anger; fire will devour them.
10 You will wipe their children from the face of the earth; they will never have descendants.
11 Although they plot against you, their evil schemes will never succeed.
12 For they will turn and run when they see your arrows aimed at them.
13 We praise you, LORD, for all your glorious power. With music and singing we celebrate your mighty acts.
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 In times of trouble, may the LORD respond to your cry. May the God of Israel[a] keep you safe from all harm.
2 May he send you help from his sanctuary and strengthen you from Jerusalem.[b]
3 May he remember all your gifts and look favorably on your burnt offerings.
Interlude
4 May he grant your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans.
5 May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory, flying banners to honor our God. May the LORD answer all your prayers.
6 Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed king. He will answer him from his holy heaven and rescue him by his great power.
7 Some nations boast of their armies and weapons,[c] but we boast in the LORD our God.
8 Those nations will fall down and collapse, but we will rise up and stand firm.
9 Give victory to our king, O LORD! Respond to our cry for help.
Footnotes:
Psalm 20:1 Hebrew of Jacob.
Psalm 20:2 Hebrew Zion.
Psalm 20:7 Hebrew chariots and horses.
Psalm 21
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 How the king rejoices in your strength, O LORD! He shouts with joy because of your victory.
2 For you have given him his heart's desire; you have held back nothing that he requested.
Interlude
3 You welcomed him back with success and prosperity. You placed a crown of finest gold on his head.
4 He asked you to preserve his life, and you have granted his request. The days of his life stretch on forever.
5 Your victory brings him great honor, and you have clothed him with splendor and majesty.
6 You have endowed him with eternal blessings. You have given him the joy of being in your presence.
7 For the king trusts in the LORD. The unfailing love of the Most High will keep him from stumbling.
8 You will capture all your enemies. Your strong right hand will seize all those who hate you.
9 You will destroy them as in a flaming furnace when you appear. The LORD will consume them in his anger; fire will devour them.
10 You will wipe their children from the face of the earth; they will never have descendants.
11 Although they plot against you, their evil schemes will never succeed.
12 For they will turn and run when they see your arrows aimed at them.
13 We praise you, LORD, for all your glorious power. With music and singing we celebrate your mighty acts.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Psalm 19 (NLT)
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 The heavens tell of the glory of God. The skies display his marvelous craftsmanship.
2 Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known.
3 They speak without a sound or a word; their voice is silent in the skies;[a]
4 yet their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to all the world. The sun lives in the heavens where God placed it.
5 It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race.
6 The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat.
7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
8 The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight to life.
9 Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair.
10 They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb.
11 They are a warning to those who hear them; there is great reward for those who obey them.
12 How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults.
13 Keep me from deliberate sins! Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin.
14 May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
Footnotes:
Psalm 19:3 Or There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.
1 The heavens tell of the glory of God. The skies display his marvelous craftsmanship.
2 Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known.
3 They speak without a sound or a word; their voice is silent in the skies;[a]
4 yet their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to all the world. The sun lives in the heavens where God placed it.
5 It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race.
6 The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat.
7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
8 The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight to life.
9 Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair.
10 They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb.
11 They are a warning to those who hear them; there is great reward for those who obey them.
12 How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults.
13 Keep me from deliberate sins! Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin.
14 May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
Footnotes:
Psalm 19:3 Or There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Psalm 18 (NLT)
For the choir director: A psalm of David, the servant of the LORD. He sang this song to the LORD on the day the LORD rescued him from all his enemies and from Saul.
1 I love you, LORD; you are my strength.
2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold.
3 I will call on the LORD, who is worthy of praise, for he saves me from my enemies.
4 The ropes of death surrounded me; the floods of destruction swept over me.
5 The grave[a] wrapped its ropes around me; death itself stared me in the face.
6 But in my distress I cried out to the LORD; yes, I prayed to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry reached his ears.
7 Then the earth quaked and trembled; the foundations of the mountains shook; they quaked because of his anger.
8 Smoke poured from his nostrils; fierce flames leaped from his mouth; glowing coals flamed forth from him.
9 He opened the heavens and came down; dark storm clouds were beneath his feet.
10 Mounted on a mighty angel,[b] he flew, soaring on the wings of the wind.
11 He shrouded himself in darkness, veiling his approach with dense rain clouds.
12 The brilliance of his presence broke through the clouds, raining down hail and burning coals.
13 The LORD thundered from heaven; the Most High gave a mighty shout.[c]
14 He shot his arrows and scattered his enemies; his lightning flashed, and they were greatly confused.
15 Then at your command, O LORD, at the blast of your breath, the bottom of the sea could be seen, and the foundations of the earth were laid bare.
16 He reached down from heaven and rescued me; he drew me out of deep waters.
17 He delivered me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me and were too strong for me.
18 They attacked me at a moment when I was weakest, but the LORD upheld me.
19 He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me.
20 The LORD rewarded me for doing right; he compensated me because of my innocence.
21 For I have kept the ways of the LORD; I have not turned from my God to follow evil.
22 For all his laws are constantly before me; I have never abandoned his principles.
23 I am blameless before God; I have kept myself from sin.
24 The LORD rewarded me for doing right, because of the innocence of my hands in his sight.
25 To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity.
26 To the pure you show yourself pure, but to the wicked you show yourself hostile.
27 You rescue those who are humble, but you humiliate the proud.
28 LORD, you have brought light to my life; my God, you light up my darkness.
29 In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall.
30 As for God, his way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.
31 For who is God except the LORD? Who but our God is a solid rock?
32 God arms me with strength; he has made my way safe.
33 He makes me as surefooted as a deer, leading me safely along the mountain heights.
34 He prepares me for battle; he strengthens me to draw a bow of bronze.
35 You have given me the shield of your salvation. Your right hand supports me; your gentleness has made me great.
36 You have made a wide path for my feet to keep them from slipping.
37 I chased my enemies and caught them; I did not stop until they were conquered.
38 I struck them down so they could not get up; they fell beneath my feet.
39 You have armed me with strength for the battle; you have subdued my enemies under my feet.
40 You made them turn and run; I have destroyed all who hated me.
41 They called for help, but no one came to rescue them. They cried to the LORD, but he refused to answer them.
42 I ground them as fine as dust carried by the wind. I swept them into the gutter like dirt.
43 You gave me victory over my accusers. You appointed me as the ruler over nations; people I don't even know now serve me.
44 As soon as they hear of me, they submit; foreigners cringe before me.
45 They all lose their courage and come trembling from their strongholds.
46 The LORD lives! Blessed be my rock! May the God of my salvation be exalted!
47 He is the God who pays back those who harm me; he subdues the nations under me
48 and rescues me from my enemies. You hold me safe beyond the reach of my enemies; you save me from violent opponents.
49 For this, O LORD, I will praise you among the nations; I will sing joyfully to your name.
50 You give great victories to your king; you show unfailing love to your anointed, to David and all his descendants forever.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 18:5 Hebrew Sheol.
b. Psalm 18:10 Hebrew a cherub.
c. Psalm 18:13 As in Greek version (see also 2 Sam 22:14); Hebrew adds raining down hail and burning coals.
1 I love you, LORD; you are my strength.
2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold.
3 I will call on the LORD, who is worthy of praise, for he saves me from my enemies.
4 The ropes of death surrounded me; the floods of destruction swept over me.
5 The grave[a] wrapped its ropes around me; death itself stared me in the face.
6 But in my distress I cried out to the LORD; yes, I prayed to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry reached his ears.
7 Then the earth quaked and trembled; the foundations of the mountains shook; they quaked because of his anger.
8 Smoke poured from his nostrils; fierce flames leaped from his mouth; glowing coals flamed forth from him.
9 He opened the heavens and came down; dark storm clouds were beneath his feet.
10 Mounted on a mighty angel,[b] he flew, soaring on the wings of the wind.
11 He shrouded himself in darkness, veiling his approach with dense rain clouds.
12 The brilliance of his presence broke through the clouds, raining down hail and burning coals.
13 The LORD thundered from heaven; the Most High gave a mighty shout.[c]
14 He shot his arrows and scattered his enemies; his lightning flashed, and they were greatly confused.
15 Then at your command, O LORD, at the blast of your breath, the bottom of the sea could be seen, and the foundations of the earth were laid bare.
16 He reached down from heaven and rescued me; he drew me out of deep waters.
17 He delivered me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me and were too strong for me.
18 They attacked me at a moment when I was weakest, but the LORD upheld me.
19 He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me.
20 The LORD rewarded me for doing right; he compensated me because of my innocence.
21 For I have kept the ways of the LORD; I have not turned from my God to follow evil.
22 For all his laws are constantly before me; I have never abandoned his principles.
23 I am blameless before God; I have kept myself from sin.
24 The LORD rewarded me for doing right, because of the innocence of my hands in his sight.
25 To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity.
26 To the pure you show yourself pure, but to the wicked you show yourself hostile.
27 You rescue those who are humble, but you humiliate the proud.
28 LORD, you have brought light to my life; my God, you light up my darkness.
29 In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall.
30 As for God, his way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.
31 For who is God except the LORD? Who but our God is a solid rock?
32 God arms me with strength; he has made my way safe.
33 He makes me as surefooted as a deer, leading me safely along the mountain heights.
34 He prepares me for battle; he strengthens me to draw a bow of bronze.
35 You have given me the shield of your salvation. Your right hand supports me; your gentleness has made me great.
36 You have made a wide path for my feet to keep them from slipping.
37 I chased my enemies and caught them; I did not stop until they were conquered.
38 I struck them down so they could not get up; they fell beneath my feet.
39 You have armed me with strength for the battle; you have subdued my enemies under my feet.
40 You made them turn and run; I have destroyed all who hated me.
41 They called for help, but no one came to rescue them. They cried to the LORD, but he refused to answer them.
42 I ground them as fine as dust carried by the wind. I swept them into the gutter like dirt.
43 You gave me victory over my accusers. You appointed me as the ruler over nations; people I don't even know now serve me.
44 As soon as they hear of me, they submit; foreigners cringe before me.
45 They all lose their courage and come trembling from their strongholds.
46 The LORD lives! Blessed be my rock! May the God of my salvation be exalted!
47 He is the God who pays back those who harm me; he subdues the nations under me
48 and rescues me from my enemies. You hold me safe beyond the reach of my enemies; you save me from violent opponents.
49 For this, O LORD, I will praise you among the nations; I will sing joyfully to your name.
50 You give great victories to your king; you show unfailing love to your anointed, to David and all his descendants forever.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 18:5 Hebrew Sheol.
b. Psalm 18:10 Hebrew a cherub.
c. Psalm 18:13 As in Greek version (see also 2 Sam 22:14); Hebrew adds raining down hail and burning coals.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Psalm 17 (NLT)
A prayer of David.
1 O LORD, hear my plea for justice. Listen to my cry for help. Pay attention to my prayer, for it comes from an honest heart.
2 Declare me innocent, for you know those who do right.
3 You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night. You have scrutinized me and found nothing amiss, for I am determined not to sin in what I say.
4 I have followed your commands, which have kept me from going along with cruel and evil people.
5 My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you.
6 I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray.
7 Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. You save with your strength those who seek refuge from their enemies.
8 Guard me as the apple of your eye. Hide me in the shadow of your wings.
9 Protect me from wicked people who attack me, from murderous enemies who surround me.
10 They are without pity. Listen to their boasting.
11 They track me down, surround me, and throw me to the ground.
12 They are like hungry lions, eager to tear me apart-- like young lions in hiding, waiting for their chance.
13 Arise, O LORD! Stand against them and bring them to their knees! Rescue me from the wicked with your sword!
14 Save me by your mighty hand, O LORD, from those whose only concern is earthly gain. May they have their punishment in full. May their children inherit more of the same, and may the judgment continue to their children's children.
15 But because I have done what is right, I will see you. When I awake, I will be fully satisfied, for I will see you face to face.
1 O LORD, hear my plea for justice. Listen to my cry for help. Pay attention to my prayer, for it comes from an honest heart.
2 Declare me innocent, for you know those who do right.
3 You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night. You have scrutinized me and found nothing amiss, for I am determined not to sin in what I say.
4 I have followed your commands, which have kept me from going along with cruel and evil people.
5 My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you.
6 I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray.
7 Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. You save with your strength those who seek refuge from their enemies.
8 Guard me as the apple of your eye. Hide me in the shadow of your wings.
9 Protect me from wicked people who attack me, from murderous enemies who surround me.
10 They are without pity. Listen to their boasting.
11 They track me down, surround me, and throw me to the ground.
12 They are like hungry lions, eager to tear me apart-- like young lions in hiding, waiting for their chance.
13 Arise, O LORD! Stand against them and bring them to their knees! Rescue me from the wicked with your sword!
14 Save me by your mighty hand, O LORD, from those whose only concern is earthly gain. May they have their punishment in full. May their children inherit more of the same, and may the judgment continue to their children's children.
15 But because I have done what is right, I will see you. When I awake, I will be fully satisfied, for I will see you face to face.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Psalm 16 (NLT)
A psalm of David.
1 Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.
2 I said to the LORD, "You are my Master! All the good things I have are from you."
3 The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them!
4 Those who chase after other gods will be filled with sorrow. I will not take part in their sacrifices or even speak the names of their gods.
5 LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine.
6 The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance!
7 I will bless the LORD who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me.
8 I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
9 No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth[a] shouts his praises! My body rests in safety.
10 For you will not leave my soul among the dead[b] or allow your godly one[c] to rot in the grave.
11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.
Footnotes:
Psalm 16:9 As in Greek version; Hebrew reads glory.
Psalm 16:10 Hebrew in Sheol.
Psalm 16:10 Or your Holy One.
1 Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.
2 I said to the LORD, "You are my Master! All the good things I have are from you."
3 The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them!
4 Those who chase after other gods will be filled with sorrow. I will not take part in their sacrifices or even speak the names of their gods.
5 LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine.
6 The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance!
7 I will bless the LORD who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me.
8 I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
9 No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth[a] shouts his praises! My body rests in safety.
10 For you will not leave my soul among the dead[b] or allow your godly one[c] to rot in the grave.
11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.
Footnotes:
Psalm 16:9 As in Greek version; Hebrew reads glory.
Psalm 16:10 Hebrew in Sheol.
Psalm 16:10 Or your Holy One.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Psalms 13-15 (NLT)
Psalm 13
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 O LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way?
2 How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand?
3 Turn and answer me, O LORD my God! Restore the light to my eyes, or I will die.
4 Don't let my enemies gloat, saying, "We have defeated him!" Don't let them rejoice at my downfall.
5 But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me.
6 I will sing to the LORD because he has been so good to me.
Psalm 14
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 Only fools say in their hearts, "There is no God." They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; no one does good!
2 The LORD looks down from heaven on the entire human race; he looks to see if there is even one with real understanding, one who seeks for God.
3 But no, all have turned away from God; all have become corrupt. No one does good, not even one!
4 Will those who do evil never learn? They eat up my people like bread; they wouldn't think of praying to the LORD.
5 Terror will grip them, for God is with those who obey him.
6 The wicked frustrate the plans of the oppressed, but the LORD will protect his people.
7 Oh, that salvation would come from Mount Zion to rescue Israel! For when the LORD restores his people, Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice.
Psalm 15
A psalm of David.
1 Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?
2 Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts.
3 Those who refuse to slander others or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends.
4 Those who despise persistent sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the LORD and keep their promises even when it hurts.
5 Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend, and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever.
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 O LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way?
2 How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand?
3 Turn and answer me, O LORD my God! Restore the light to my eyes, or I will die.
4 Don't let my enemies gloat, saying, "We have defeated him!" Don't let them rejoice at my downfall.
5 But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me.
6 I will sing to the LORD because he has been so good to me.
Psalm 14
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 Only fools say in their hearts, "There is no God." They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; no one does good!
2 The LORD looks down from heaven on the entire human race; he looks to see if there is even one with real understanding, one who seeks for God.
3 But no, all have turned away from God; all have become corrupt. No one does good, not even one!
4 Will those who do evil never learn? They eat up my people like bread; they wouldn't think of praying to the LORD.
5 Terror will grip them, for God is with those who obey him.
6 The wicked frustrate the plans of the oppressed, but the LORD will protect his people.
7 Oh, that salvation would come from Mount Zion to rescue Israel! For when the LORD restores his people, Jacob will shout with joy, and Israel will rejoice.
Psalm 15
A psalm of David.
1 Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?
2 Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts.
3 Those who refuse to slander others or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends.
4 Those who despise persistent sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the LORD and keep their promises even when it hurts.
5 Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend, and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Psalms 11-12 (NLT)
Psalm 11
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 I trust in the LORD for protection. So why do you say to me, "Fly to the mountains for safety!
2 The wicked are stringing their bows and setting their arrows in the bowstrings. They shoot from the shadows at those who do right.
3 The foundations of law and order have collapsed. What can the righteous do?"
4 But the LORD is in his holy Temple; the LORD still rules from heaven. He watches everything closely, examining everyone on earth.
5 The LORD examines both the righteous and the wicked. He hates everyone who loves violence.
6 He rains down blazing coals on the wicked, punishing them with burning sulfur and scorching winds.
7 For the LORD is righteous, and he loves justice. Those who do what is right will see his face.
Psalm 12
For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by an eight-stringed instrument.
1[a] Help, O LORD, for the godly are fast disappearing! The faithful have vanished from the earth!
2 Neighbors lie to each other, speaking with flattering lips and insincere hearts.
3 May the LORD bring their flattery to an end and silence their proud tongues.
4 They say, "We will lie to our hearts' content. Our lips are our own--who can stop us?"
5 The LORD replies, "I have seen violence done to the helpless, and I have heard the groans of the poor. Now I will rise up to rescue them, as they have longed for me to do."
6 The LORD's promises are pure, like silver refined in a furnace, purified seven times over.
7 Therefore, LORD, we know you will protect the oppressed, preserving them forever from this lying generation,
8 even though the wicked strut about, and evil is praised throughout the land.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 12:1 Hebrew according to the sheminith.
For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 I trust in the LORD for protection. So why do you say to me, "Fly to the mountains for safety!
2 The wicked are stringing their bows and setting their arrows in the bowstrings. They shoot from the shadows at those who do right.
3 The foundations of law and order have collapsed. What can the righteous do?"
4 But the LORD is in his holy Temple; the LORD still rules from heaven. He watches everything closely, examining everyone on earth.
5 The LORD examines both the righteous and the wicked. He hates everyone who loves violence.
6 He rains down blazing coals on the wicked, punishing them with burning sulfur and scorching winds.
7 For the LORD is righteous, and he loves justice. Those who do what is right will see his face.
Psalm 12
For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by an eight-stringed instrument.
1[a] Help, O LORD, for the godly are fast disappearing! The faithful have vanished from the earth!
2 Neighbors lie to each other, speaking with flattering lips and insincere hearts.
3 May the LORD bring their flattery to an end and silence their proud tongues.
4 They say, "We will lie to our hearts' content. Our lips are our own--who can stop us?"
5 The LORD replies, "I have seen violence done to the helpless, and I have heard the groans of the poor. Now I will rise up to rescue them, as they have longed for me to do."
6 The LORD's promises are pure, like silver refined in a furnace, purified seven times over.
7 Therefore, LORD, we know you will protect the oppressed, preserving them forever from this lying generation,
8 even though the wicked strut about, and evil is praised throughout the land.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 12:1 Hebrew according to the sheminith.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Psalm 10 (NLT)
Interlude
1 O LORD, why do you stand so far away? Why do you hide when I need you the most?
2 Proud and wicked people viciously oppress the poor. Let them be caught in the evil they plan for others.
3 For they brag about their evil desires; they praise the greedy and curse the LORD.
4 These wicked people are too proud to seek God. They seem to think that God is dead.
5 Yet they succeed in everything they do. They do not see your punishment awaiting them. They pour scorn on all their enemies.
6 They say to themselves, "Nothing bad will ever happen to us! We will be free of trouble forever!"
7 Their mouths are full of cursing, lies, and threats. Trouble and evil are on the tips of their tongues.
8 They lurk in dark alleys, murdering the innocent who pass by. They are always searching for some helpless victim.
9 Like lions they crouch silently, waiting to pounce on the helpless. Like hunters they capture their victims and drag them away in nets.
10 The helpless are overwhelmed and collapse; they fall beneath the strength of the wicked.
11 The wicked say to themselves, "God isn't watching! He will never notice!"
12 Arise, O LORD! Punish the wicked, O God! Do not forget the helpless!
13 Why do the wicked get away with cursing God? How can they think, "God will never call us to account"?
14 But you do see the trouble and grief they cause. You take note of it and punish them. The helpless put their trust in you. You are the defender of orphans.
15 Break the arms of these wicked, evil people! Go after them until the last one is destroyed!
16 The LORD is king forever and ever! Let those who worship other gods be swept from the land.
17 LORD, you know the hopes of the helpless. Surely you will listen to their cries and comfort them.
18 You will bring justice to the orphans and the oppressed, so people can no longer terrify them.
1 O LORD, why do you stand so far away? Why do you hide when I need you the most?
2 Proud and wicked people viciously oppress the poor. Let them be caught in the evil they plan for others.
3 For they brag about their evil desires; they praise the greedy and curse the LORD.
4 These wicked people are too proud to seek God. They seem to think that God is dead.
5 Yet they succeed in everything they do. They do not see your punishment awaiting them. They pour scorn on all their enemies.
6 They say to themselves, "Nothing bad will ever happen to us! We will be free of trouble forever!"
7 Their mouths are full of cursing, lies, and threats. Trouble and evil are on the tips of their tongues.
8 They lurk in dark alleys, murdering the innocent who pass by. They are always searching for some helpless victim.
9 Like lions they crouch silently, waiting to pounce on the helpless. Like hunters they capture their victims and drag them away in nets.
10 The helpless are overwhelmed and collapse; they fall beneath the strength of the wicked.
11 The wicked say to themselves, "God isn't watching! He will never notice!"
12 Arise, O LORD! Punish the wicked, O God! Do not forget the helpless!
13 Why do the wicked get away with cursing God? How can they think, "God will never call us to account"?
14 But you do see the trouble and grief they cause. You take note of it and punish them. The helpless put their trust in you. You are the defender of orphans.
15 Break the arms of these wicked, evil people! Go after them until the last one is destroyed!
16 The LORD is king forever and ever! Let those who worship other gods be swept from the land.
17 LORD, you know the hopes of the helpless. Surely you will listen to their cries and comfort them.
18 You will bring justice to the orphans and the oppressed, so people can no longer terrify them.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Psalm 9 (NLT)
For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be sung to the tune Death of the Son.
1 I will thank you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done.
2 I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High.
3 My enemies turn away in retreat; they are overthrown and destroyed before you.
4 For you have judged in my favor; from your throne, you have judged with fairness.
5 You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; you have wiped out their names forever.
6 My enemies have met their doom; their cities are perpetual ruins. Even the memory of their uprooted cities is lost.
7 But the LORD reigns forever, executing judgment from his throne.
8 He will judge the world with justice and rule the nations with fairness.
9 The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
10 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, have never abandoned anyone who searches for you.
11 Sing praises to the LORD who reigns in Jerusalem.[a] Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds.
12 For he who avenges murder cares for the helpless. He does not ignore those who cry to him for help.
13 LORD, have mercy on me. See how I suffer at the hands of those who hate me. Snatch me back from the jaws of death.
14 Save me, so I can praise you publicly at Jerusalem's gates, so I can rejoice that you have rescued me.
15 The nations have fallen into the pit they dug for others. They have been caught in their own trap.
16 The LORD is known for his justice. The wicked have trapped themselves in their own snares.[b]
Quiet Interlude 17 The wicked will go down to the grave.[c] This is the fate of all the nations who ignore God.
18 For the needy will not be forgotten forever; the hopes of the poor will not always be crushed.
19 Arise, O LORD! Do not let mere mortals defy you! Let the nations be judged in your presence!
20 Make them tremble in fear, O LORD. Let them know they are merely human.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 9:11 Hebrew Zion; also in 9:14.
b. Psalm 9:16 Hebrew Higgaion Selah. The meaning of this phrase is uncertain.
c. Psalm 9:17 Hebrew to Sheol.
1 I will thank you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done.
2 I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High.
3 My enemies turn away in retreat; they are overthrown and destroyed before you.
4 For you have judged in my favor; from your throne, you have judged with fairness.
5 You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; you have wiped out their names forever.
6 My enemies have met their doom; their cities are perpetual ruins. Even the memory of their uprooted cities is lost.
7 But the LORD reigns forever, executing judgment from his throne.
8 He will judge the world with justice and rule the nations with fairness.
9 The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
10 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, have never abandoned anyone who searches for you.
11 Sing praises to the LORD who reigns in Jerusalem.[a] Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds.
12 For he who avenges murder cares for the helpless. He does not ignore those who cry to him for help.
13 LORD, have mercy on me. See how I suffer at the hands of those who hate me. Snatch me back from the jaws of death.
14 Save me, so I can praise you publicly at Jerusalem's gates, so I can rejoice that you have rescued me.
15 The nations have fallen into the pit they dug for others. They have been caught in their own trap.
16 The LORD is known for his justice. The wicked have trapped themselves in their own snares.[b]
Quiet Interlude 17 The wicked will go down to the grave.[c] This is the fate of all the nations who ignore God.
18 For the needy will not be forgotten forever; the hopes of the poor will not always be crushed.
19 Arise, O LORD! Do not let mere mortals defy you! Let the nations be judged in your presence!
20 Make them tremble in fear, O LORD. Let them know they are merely human.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 9:11 Hebrew Zion; also in 9:14.
b. Psalm 9:16 Hebrew Higgaion Selah. The meaning of this phrase is uncertain.
c. Psalm 9:17 Hebrew to Sheol.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Psalm 8 (NLT)
For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by a stringed instrument.
1[a]O LORD, our Lord, the majesty of your name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2
You have taught children and nursing infants
to give you praise.[b]
They silence your enemies
who were seeking revenge.
3
When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers--
the moon and the stars you have set in place--
4
what are mortals that you should think of us,
mere humans that you should care for us?[c]
5
For you made us only a little lower than God,[d]
and you crowned us with glory and honor.
6
You put us in charge of everything you made,
giving us authority over all things--
7
the sheep and the cattle
and all the wild animals,
8
the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9
O LORD, our Lord, the majesty of your name fills the earth!
a. Psalm 8:1 Hebrew according to the gittith.
b. Psalm 8:2 As in Greek version; Hebrew reads to show strength.
c. Psalm 8:4 Hebrew what is man that you should think of him, the son of man that you should care for him?
d. Psalm 8:5 Or a little lower than the angels; Hebrew reads Elohim.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Psalm 7 (NLT)
A psalm of David, which he sang to the LORD concerning Cush of the tribe of Benjamin.
1 I come to you for protection, O LORD my God. Save me from my persecutors--rescue me!
2 If you don't, they will maul me like a lion, tearing me to pieces with no one to rescue me.
3 O LORD my God, if I have done wrong or am guilty of injustice,
4 if I have betrayed a friend or plundered my enemy without cause,
5 then let my enemies capture me. Let them trample me into the ground. Let my honor be left in the dust.
Interlude 6 Arise, O LORD, in anger! Stand up against the fury of my enemies! Wake up, my God, and bring justice!
7 Gather the nations before you. Sit on your throne high above them.
8 The LORD passes judgment on the nations. Declare me righteous, O LORD, for I am innocent, O Most High!
9 End the wickedness of the ungodly, but help all those who obey you. For you look deep within the mind and heart, O righteous God.
10 God is my shield, saving those whose hearts are true and right.
11 God is a judge who is perfectly fair. He is angry with the wicked every day.
12 If a person does not repent, God[a] will sharpen his sword; he will bend and string his bow.
13 He will prepare his deadly weapons and ignite his flaming arrows.
14 The wicked conceive evil; they are pregnant with trouble and give birth to lies.
15 They dig a pit to trap others and then fall into it themselves.
16 They make trouble, but it backfires on them. They plan violence for others, but it falls on their own heads.
17 I will thank the LORD because he is just; I will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 7:12 Hebrew he. .
1 I come to you for protection, O LORD my God. Save me from my persecutors--rescue me!
2 If you don't, they will maul me like a lion, tearing me to pieces with no one to rescue me.
3 O LORD my God, if I have done wrong or am guilty of injustice,
4 if I have betrayed a friend or plundered my enemy without cause,
5 then let my enemies capture me. Let them trample me into the ground. Let my honor be left in the dust.
Interlude 6 Arise, O LORD, in anger! Stand up against the fury of my enemies! Wake up, my God, and bring justice!
7 Gather the nations before you. Sit on your throne high above them.
8 The LORD passes judgment on the nations. Declare me righteous, O LORD, for I am innocent, O Most High!
9 End the wickedness of the ungodly, but help all those who obey you. For you look deep within the mind and heart, O righteous God.
10 God is my shield, saving those whose hearts are true and right.
11 God is a judge who is perfectly fair. He is angry with the wicked every day.
12 If a person does not repent, God[a] will sharpen his sword; he will bend and string his bow.
13 He will prepare his deadly weapons and ignite his flaming arrows.
14 The wicked conceive evil; they are pregnant with trouble and give birth to lies.
15 They dig a pit to trap others and then fall into it themselves.
16 They make trouble, but it backfires on them. They plan violence for others, but it falls on their own heads.
17 I will thank the LORD because he is just; I will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.
Footnotes:
a. Psalm 7:12 Hebrew he. .
Friday, September 01, 2006
Psalms 5-6 (NLT)
Psalm 5
For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by the flute.
1O LORD, hear me as I pray;
pay attention to my groaning.
2
Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God,
for I will never pray to anyone but you.
3
Listen to my voice in the morning, LORD.
Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.
4
O God, you take no pleasure in wickedness;
you cannot tolerate the slightest sin.
5
Therefore, the proud will not be allowed to stand in your presence,
for you hate all who do evil.
6
You will destroy those who tell lies.
The LORD detests murderers and deceivers.
7
Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house;
with deepest awe I will worship at your Temple.
8
Lead me in the right path, O LORD,
or my enemies will conquer me.
Tell me clearly what to do,
and show me which way to turn.
9
My enemies cannot speak one truthful word.
Their deepest desire is to destroy others.
Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave.
Their speech is filled with flattery.
10
O God, declare them guilty.
Let them be caught in their own traps.
Drive them away because of their many sins,
for they rebel against you.
11
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;
let them sing joyful praises forever.
Protect them,
so all who love your name may be filled with joy.
12
For you bless the godly, O LORD,
surrounding them with your shield of love.
Psalm 6
For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by an eight-stringed instrument.
1[a]O LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger
or discipline me in your rage.
2
Have compassion on me, LORD, for I am weak.
Heal me, LORD, for my body is in agony.
3
I am sick at heart.
How long, O LORD, until you restore me?
4
Return, O LORD, and rescue me.
Save me because of your unfailing love.
5
For in death, who remembers you?
Who can praise you from the grave?
6
I am worn out from sobbing.
Every night tears drench my bed;
my pillow is wet from weeping.
7
My vision is blurred by grief;
my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies.
8
Go away, all you who do evil,
for the LORD has heard my crying.
9
The LORD has heard my plea;
the LORD will answer my prayer.
10
May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified.
May they suddenly turn back in shame.
a. Psalm 6:1 Hebrew with stringed instruments; according to the sheminith.
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