Study Desk

You sinners frustrate the plans of the oppressed,but the Lord is his refuge.

Oh, that Israel’s deliverance would come from Zion!When the Lord restores the fortunes of his people,let Jacob rejoice, let Israel be glad.

The one who lives blamelessly, practices righteousness,and acknowledges the truth in his heart—

who does not slander with his tongue,who does not harm his friendor discredit his neighbor,

who despises the one rejected by the Lordbut honors those who fear the Lord,who keeps his word whatever the cost,

who does not lend his silver at interestor take a bribe against the innocent—the one who does these things will never be shaken.

I called to the Lord in my distress,and I cried to my God for help.From his temple he heard my voice,and my cry to him reached his ears.

Smoke rose from his nostrils,and consuming fire came from his mouth;coals were set ablaze by it.

He bent the heavens and came down,total darkness beneath his feet.

He made darkness his hiding place,dark storm clouds his canopy around him.

From the radiance of his presence,his clouds swept onward with hail and blazing coals.

The Lord thundered from heaven;the Most High made his voice heard.

He shot his arrows and scattered them;he hurled lightning bolts and routed them.

Indeed, I let all his ordinances guide meand have not disregarded his statutes.

So the Lord repaid meaccording to my righteousness,according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.

God—his way is perfect;the word of the Lord is pure.He is a shield to all who take refuge in him.

He gives great victories to his king;he shows loyalty to his anointed,to David and his descendants forever.

The heavens declare the glory of God,and the expanse proclaims the work of his hands.

It is like a bridegroom coming from his home;it rejoices like an athlete running a course.

Who perceives his unintentional sins?Cleanse me from my hidden faults.