A Psalm of Asaph.

1The mighty God, the LORD, has spoken, and summoned all the earth from east to west (from where the sun rises to where it sets). 2From Zion, perfect in beauty, God has shined forth. 3Our God shall come, and shall not remain silent; a devouring fire shall precede Him, and a storm shall rage around Him. 4He shall summon the heavens from above, and the earth, that He may judge His people. 5“Gather My saints together unto Me; those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.” 6And the heavens shall declare His righteousness; for God is Judge Himself. Selah.

7“Hear, O My people, and I will speak; O Israel, and I will testify against you; I am God, your God. 8I will not condemn you for your sacrifices or your burnt offerings, which are always before Me. 9I have no need for one of your bulls, nor your he goats. 10For every animal of the forest is Mine, as well as the cattle upon a thousand hills. 11I know every bird in the mountains; and the wild animals of the field are Mine. 12If I were hungry, I would not tell you; for the world is Mine, and all that it contains. 13Whu should I eat the meat of bulls, or drink the blood of goats? 14Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay your vows to the Most High, 15And call upon Me in your day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”

16But to the wicked God says, “What right have you to declare My statutes, or to speak of My covenant, 17Since you hate discipline, and reject My words? 18When you see a thief, then you join with him, and associate with adulterers. 19Your mouth is full of evil words of deceit. 20You sit and speak against your brother; you slander your own mother's son. 21You have done these things; and when I remained silent, you wrongly assumed that I was just like you; but now I will set the record straight, and bring My charges against you, before your very eyes. 22Now you who forget God, take note, before I tear you apart, with none to save you. 23Whoever offers praise glorifies Me; and will I show the salvation of God to them whose conduct is righteous.