Psalm 40:1–11

A Song of Praise^o

40 I waited patiently for the Lord’s help;

then he listened to me and heard my cry.

²He pulled me out of a dangerous pit,

out of the deadly quicksand.

He set me safely on a rock

and made me secure.

³He taught me to sing a new song,

a song of praise to our God.

Many who see this will take warning

and will put their trust in the Lord.

⁴Happy are those who trust the Lord,

who do not turn to idols

or join those who worship false gods.

⁵You have done many things for us, O Lord our God;

there is no one like you!

You have made many wonderful plans for us.

I could never speak of them all—

their number is so great!

^6*You do not want sacrifices and offerings;

you do not ask for animals burnt whole on the altar

or for sacrifices to take away sins.

Instead, you have given me ears to hear you,

^7*and so I answered, “Here I am;

your instructions for me are in the book of the Law.^p

^8*How I love to do your will, my God!

I keep your teaching in my heart.”

⁹In the assembly of all your people, Lord,

I told the good news that you save us.

You know that I will never stop telling it.

¹⁰I have not kept the news of salvation to myself;

I have always spoken of your faithfulness and help.

In the assembly of all your people I have not been silent

about your loyalty and constant love.

¹¹Lord, I know you will never stop being merciful to me.

Your love and loyalty will always keep me safe.