Psalm 119:1–24

Aleph

¹Joyful are people of integrity,

who follow the instructions of the Lord.

²Joyful are those who obey his laws

and search for him with all their hearts.

³They do not compromise with evil,

and they walk only in his paths.

⁴You have charged us

to keep your commandments carefully.

⁵Oh, that my actions would consistently

reflect your decrees!

⁶Then I will not be ashamed

when I compare my life with your commands.

⁷As I learn your righteous regulations,

I will thank you by living as I should!

⁸I will obey your decrees.

Please don’t give up on me!

Beth

⁹How can a young person stay pure?

By obeying your word.

¹⁰I have tried hard to find you—

don’t let me wander from your commands.

¹¹I have hidden your word in my heart,

that I might not sin against you.

¹²I praise you, O Lord;

teach me your decrees.

¹³I have recited aloud

all the regulations you have given us.

¹⁴I have rejoiced in your laws

as much as in riches.

¹⁵I will study your commandments

and reflect on your ways.

¹⁶I will delight in your decrees

and not forget your word.

Gimel

¹⁷Be good to your servant,

that I may live and obey your word.

¹⁸Open my eyes to see

the wonderful truths in your instructions.

¹⁹I am only a foreigner in the land.

Don’t hide your commands from me!

²⁰I am always overwhelmed

with a desire for your regulations.

²¹You rebuke the arrogant;

those who wander from your commands are cursed.

²²Don’t let them scorn and insult me,

for I have obeyed your laws.

²³Even princes sit and speak against me,

but I will meditate on your decrees.

²⁴Your laws please me;

they give me wise advice.