Proverbs 31

Advice to a King 1 These are the solemn words which King Lemuel’s mother said to him: 2 “You are my own dear son, the answer to my prayers. What shall I tell you? 3 Don’t spend all your energy on sex and all your money on women; they have destroyed kings. 4 Listen, Lemuel. […]

Psalm 1

True Happiness 1 Happy are those who reject the advice of evil people, who do not follow the example of sinners or join those who have no use for God. 2 Instead, they find joy in obeying the Law of the Lord, and they study it day and night. 3 They are like trees that […]

Psalm 2

God’s Chosen King 1 Why do the nations plan rebellion? Why do people make their useless plots? 2 Their kings revolt, their rulers plot together against the Lord and against the king he chose. 3 “Let us free ourselves from their rule,” they say; “let us throw off their control.” 4 From his throne in […]

Psalm 3

Morning Prayer for Help 1 I have so many enemies, Lord, so many who turn against me! 2 They talk about me and say, “God will not help him.” 3 But you, O Lord, are always my shield from danger; you give me victory and restore my courage. 4 I call to the Lord for […]

Psalm 4

Evening Prayer for Help 1 Answer me when I pray, O God, my defender! When I was in trouble, you helped me. Be kind to me now and hear my prayer. 2 How long will you people insult me? How long will you love what is worthless and go after what is false? 3 Remember […]

Psalm 5

A Prayer for Protection 1 Listen to my words, O Lord, and hear my sighs. 2 Listen to my cry for help, my God and king! I pray to you, O Lord; 3 you hear my voice in the morning; at sunrise I offer my prayer and wait for your answer. 4 You are not […]

Psalm 6

A Prayer for Help in Time of Trouble 1 Lord, don’t be angry and rebuke me! Don’t punish me in your anger! 2 I am worn out, O Lord; have pity on me! Give me strength; I am completely exhausted 3 and my whole being is deeply troubled. How long, O Lord, will you wait […]

Psalm 7

A Prayer for Justice 1 O Lord, my God, I come to you for protection; rescue me and save me from all who pursue me, 2 or else like a lion they will carry me off where no one can save me, and there they will tear me to pieces. 3-4 O Lord, my God, […]

Psalm 8

God’s Glory and Human Dignity 1 O Lord, our Lord, your greatness is seen in all the world! Your praise reaches up to the heavens; 2 it is sung by children and babies. You are safe and secure from all your enemies; you stop anyone who opposes you. 3 When I look at the sky, […]