Psalm 19

The Witness of Creation and Scripture

For the choir director. A psalm of David.

The heavens declare the glory of God,

and the expansea proclaims the work of his hands.b

2Day after day they pour out speech;

night after night they communicate knowledge.A

3There is no speech; there are no words;

their voice is not heard.

4Their messageA has gone out to the whole earth,

and their words to the ends of the world.a

In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun.b

5It is like a bridegroom coming from his home;

it rejoices like an athlete running a course.

6It rises from one end of the heavens

and circles to their other end;a

nothing is hidden from its heat.

7The instruction of the Lord is perfect,

renewing one’s life;a

the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy,

making the inexperienced wise.b

8The precepts of the Lord are right,

making the heart glad;a

the command of the Lord is radiant,

making the eyes light up.b

9The fear of the Lord is pure,

enduring forever;a

the ordinances of the Lord are reliable

and altogether righteous.b

10They are more desirable than gold —

than an abundance of pure gold;a

and sweeter than honey

dripping from a honeycomb.b

11In addition, your servant is warned by them,

and in keeping them there is an abundant reward.a

12Who perceives his unintentional sins?

Cleanse me from my hidden faults.a

13Moreover, keep your servant from willful sins;a

do not let them rule me.b

Then I will be blameless

and cleansed from blatant rebellion.c

14May the words of my mouth

and the meditation of my heart

be acceptable to you,a

Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.b