Psalm 119:153–176

A Plea for Help

¹⁵³Look at my suffering, and save me,

because I have not neglected your law.

¹⁵⁴Defend my cause, and set me free;

save me, as you have promised.

¹⁵⁵The wicked will not be saved,

for they do not obey your laws.

¹⁵⁶But your compassion, Lord, is great;

show your mercy and save me!

¹⁵⁷I have many enemies and oppressors,

but I do not fail to obey your laws.

¹⁵⁸When I look at those traitors, I am filled with disgust,

because they do not keep your commands.

¹⁵⁹See how I love your instructions, Lord.

Your love never changes, so save me!

¹⁶⁰The heart of your law is truth,

and all your righteous judgements are eternal.

Dedication to the Law of the

¹⁶¹Powerful people attack me unjustly,

but I respect your law.

¹⁶²How happy I am because of your promises—

as happy as someone who finds rich treasure.

¹⁶³I hate and detest all lies,

but I love your law.

¹⁶⁴Seven times each day I thank you

for your righteous judgements.

¹⁶⁵Those who love your law have perfect security,

and there is nothing that can make them fall.

¹⁶⁶I wait for you to save me, Lord,

and I do what you command.

¹⁶⁷I obey your teachings;

I love them with all my heart.

¹⁶⁸I obey your commands and your instructions;

you see everything I do.

A Prayer for Help

¹⁶⁹Let my cry for help reach you, Lord!

Give me understanding, as you have promised.

¹⁷⁰Listen to my prayer,

and save me according to your promise!

¹⁷¹I will always praise you,

because you teach me your laws.

¹⁷²I will sing about your law,

because your commands are just.

¹⁷³Always be ready to help me,

because I follow your commands.

¹⁷⁴How I long for your saving help, O Lord!

I find happiness in your law.

¹⁷⁵Give me life, so that I may praise you;

may your instructions help me.

¹⁷⁶I wander about like a lost sheep;

so come and look for me, your servant,

because I have not neglected your laws.