The Law of the LORD
1Happy are those whose lives are faultless,
who live according to the law of the LORD.
2Happy are those who follow his commands,
who obey him with all their heart.
3They never do wrong;
they walk in the LORD's ways.
4LORD, you have given us your laws
and told us to obey them faithfully.
5How I hope that I shall be faithful
in keeping your instructions!
6If I pay attention to all your commands,
then I will not be put to shame.
7As I learn your righteous judgements,
I will praise you with a pure heart.
8I will obey your laws;
never abandon me!
Obedience to the Law of the LORD
9How can young people keep their lives pure?
By obeying your commands.
10With all my heart I try to serve you;
keep me from disobeying your commandments.
11I keep your law in my heart,
so that I will not sin against you.
12I praise you, O LORD;
teach me your ways.
13I will repeat aloud
all the laws you have given.
14I delight in following your commands
more than in having great wealth.
15I study your instructions;
I examine your teachings.
16I take pleasure in your laws;
your commands I will not forget.
Happiness in the Law of the LORD
17Be good to me, your servant,
so that I may live and obey your teachings.
18Open my eyes, so that I may see
the wonderful truths in your law.
19I am here on earth for just a little while;
do not hide your commands from me.
20My heart aches with longing;
I want to know your judgements at all times.
21You reprimand the proud;
cursed are those who disobey your commands.
22Free me from their insults and scorn,
because I have kept your laws.
23The rulers meet and plot against me,
but I will study your teachings.
24Your instructions give me pleasure;
they are my advisers.
Determination to Obey the Law of the LORD
25I lie defeated in the dust;
revive me, as you have promised.
26I confessed all I have done, and you answered me;
teach me your ways.
27Help me to understand your laws,
and I will meditate on your wonderful teachings.
28I am overcome by sorrow;
strengthen me, as you have promised.
29Keep me from going the wrong way,
and in your goodness teach me your law.
30I have chosen to be obedient;
I have paid attention to your judgements.
31I have followed your instructions, LORD;
don't let me be put to shame.
32I will eagerly obey your commands,
because you will give me more understanding.
A Prayer for Understanding
33Teach me, LORD, the meaning of your laws,
and I will obey them at all times.
34Explain your law to me, and I will obey it;
I will keep it with all my heart.
35Keep me obedient to your commandments,
because in them I find happiness.
36Give me the desire to obey your laws
rather than to get rich.
37Keep me from paying attention to what is worthless;
be good to me, as you have promised.
38Keep your promise to me, your servant —
the promise you make to those who obey you.
39Save me from the insults I fear;
how wonderful are your judgements!
40I want to obey your commands;
give me new life, for you are righteous.