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(A psalm by David.)

Who May Worship the Lord?

Who may stay in God's temple
or live on the holy mountain
    of the Lord?

Only those who obey God
    and do as they should.
They speak the truth
    and don't spread gossip;
they treat others fairly
    and don't say cruel things.

They hate worthless people,
but show respect for all
    who worship the Lord.
And they keep their promises,
    no matter what the cost.
They lend their money
    without charging interest,
and they don't take bribes
    to hurt the innocent.

Those who do these things
    will always stand firm.

(A special psalm by David.)

The Best Choice

Protect me, Lord God!
    I run to you for safety,
and I have said,
    “Only you are my Lord!
Every good thing I have
    is a gift from you.”

Your people are wonderful,
    and they make me happy,[a]
but worshipers of other gods
    will have much sorrow.[b]
I refuse to offer sacrifices
of blood to those gods
    or worship in their name.

You, Lord, are all I want!
You are my choice,
    and you keep me safe.
You make my life pleasant,
    and my future is bright.

I praise you, Lord,
    for being my guide.
Even in the darkest night,
    your teachings fill my mind.
(A) I will always look to you,
as you stand beside me
    and protect me from fear.
With all my heart,
I will celebrate,
    and I can safely rest.

10 (B) I am your chosen one.
You won't leave me in the grave
    or let my body decay.
11 You have shown me
    the path to life,
and you make me glad
    by being near to me.
Sitting at your right side,[c]
    I will always be joyful.

Footnotes

  1. 16.3 Your people … happy: Or “I was happy worshiping gods I thought were powerful.”
  2. 16.4 but … sorrow: One possible meaning for the difficult Hebrew text.
  3. 16.11 right side: The place of power and honor.

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