A Song of Praise+

1I waited patiently for the Lord's help;

then he listened to me and heard my cry.

2He pulled me out of a dangerous pit,

out of the deadly quicksand.

He set me safely on a rock

and made me secure.

3He taught me to sing a new song,

a song of praise to our God.

Many who see this will take warning

and will put their trust in the Lord.

4Happy are those who trust the Lord,

who do not turn to idols

or join those who worship false gods.

5You have done many things for us, O Lord our God;

there is no one like you!

You have made many wonderful plans for us.

I could never speak of them all—

their number is so great!

6 You do not want sacrifices and offerings;

you do not ask for animals burned whole on the altar

or for sacrifices to take away sins.

Instead, you have given me ears to hear you,

7and so I answered, “Here I am;

your instructions for me are in the book of the Law.+

8How I love to do your will, my God!

I keep your teaching in my heart.”

9In the assembly of all your people, Lord,

I told the good news that you save us.

You know that I will never stop telling it.

10I have not kept the news of salvation to myself;

I have always spoken of your faithfulness and help.

In the assembly of all your people I have not been silent

about your loyalty and constant love.

11Lord, I know you will never stop being merciful to me.

Your love and loyalty will always keep me safe.

A Prayer for Help

(Psalm 70)

12I am surrounded by many troubles—

too many to count!

My sins have caught up with me,

and I can no longer see;

they are more than the hairs of my head,

and I have lost my courage.

13Save me, Lord! Help me now!

14May those who try to kill me

be completely defeated and confused.

May those who are happy because of my troubles

be turned back and disgraced.

15May those who make fun of me

be dismayed by their defeat.

16May all who come to you

be glad and joyful.

May all who are thankful for your salvation

always say, “How great is the Lord!”

17I am weak and poor, O Lord,

but you have not forgotten me.

You are my savior and my God—

hurry to my aid!