Chapter 40
1 I patiently waited, Lord , for you to hear my prayer. You listened
2 and pulled me from a lonely pit full of mud and mire. You let me stand on a rock with my feet firm,
3 and you gave me a new song, a song of praise to you. Many will see this, and they will honor and trust you, the Lord God.
4 You bless all of those who trust you, Lord , and refuse to worship idols or follow false gods.
5 You, Lord God, have done many wonderful things, and you have planned marvelous things for us. No one is like you! I would never be able to tell all you have done.
6 Sacrifices and offerings are not what please you; gifts and payment for sin are not what you demand. But you made me willing to listen and obey.
7 And so, I said, "I am here to do what is written about me in the book, where it says,
8 ‘I enjoy pleasing you. Your Law is in my heart.’ "
9 When your people worshiped, you know I told them, "Our Lord always helps!"
10 When all your people met, I did not keep silent. I said, "Our Lord is kind. He is faithful and caring, and he saves us."
11 You, Lord , never fail to have pity on me; your love and faithfulness always keep me secure.
12 I have more troubles than I can count. My sins are all around me, and I can’t find my way. My sins outnumber the hairs on my head, and I feel weak.
13 Please show that you care and come to my rescue. Hurry and help me!
14 Disgrace and confuse all who want me dead; turn away and disgrace all who want to hurt me.
15 Embarrass and shame everyone who says, "Just look at you now!"
16 Our Lord , let your worshipers rejoice and be glad. They love you for saving them, so let them always say, "The Lord is wonderful!"
17 I am poor and needy, but, Lord God, you care about me, and you come to my rescue. Please hurry and help.