[1] Have pity on me, O God, in keeping with your mercy. In keeping with your unlimited compassion, wipe out my rebellious acts. [2] Wash me thoroughly from my guilt, and cleanse me from my sin. [3] I admit that I am rebellious. My sin is always in front of me. [4] I have sinned against you, especially you. I have done what you consider evil. So you hand down justice when you speak, and you are blameless when you judge. [5] Indeed, I was born guilty. I was a sinner when my mother conceived me. [6] Yet, you desire truth and sincerity. Deep down inside me you teach me wisdom. [7] Purify me from sin with hyssop, and I will be clean. Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. [8] Let me hear sounds of joy and gladness. Let the bones that you have broken dance. [9] Hide your face from my sins, and wipe out all that I have done wrong. [10] Create a clean heart in me, O God, and renew a faithful spirit within me. [11] Do not force me away from your presence, and do not take your Holy Spirit from me. [12] Restore the joy of your salvation to me, and provide me with a spirit of willing obedience. [13] Then I will teach your ways to those who are rebellious, and sinners will return to you. [14] Rescue me from the guilt of murder, O God, my savior. Let my tongue sing joyfully about your righteousness! [15] O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will tell about your praise. [16] You are not happy with any sacrifice. Otherwise, I would offer one to you. You are not pleased with burnt offerings. [17] The sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken spirit. O God, you do not despise a broken and sorrowful heart. [18] Favor Zion with your goodness. Rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. [19] Then you will be pleased with sacrifices offered in the right spirit- with burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings. Young bulls will be offered on your altar.
