The Joy of Forgiveness

1(31:1) A Psalm of instruction by David. Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, and who sins are covered.

2(31:2) Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin, and whose mouth there is no guile.

3(31:3) Because I kept silence, my bones waxed old, from my crying all the day.

4(31:4) For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: I became thoroughly miserable while a thorn was fastened in me. Pause.

5(31:5) I acknowledged my sin, and hid not mine iniquity: I said, I will confess mine iniquity to the Lord against myself; and thou forgavest the ungodliness of my heart. Pause.

6(31:6) Therefore shall every holy one pray to thee in a fit time: only in the deluge of many waters they shall not come nigh to him.

7(31:7) Thou art my refuge from the affliction that encompasses me; my joy, to deliver me from them that have compassed me. Pause.

8(31:8) I will instruct thee and guide thee in this way wherein thou shalt go: I will fix mine eyes upon thee.

9(31:9) Be ye not as horse and mule, which have no understanding; but thou must constrain their jaws with bit and curb, lest they should come nigh to thee.

10(31:10) Many are the scourges of the sinner: but him that hopes in the Lord mercy shall compass about.

11(31:11) Be glad in the Lord, and exult, ye righteous: and glory, all ye that are upright in heart.