[1] I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart. I will tell about the wonderful things you have done. [2] You make me happy, so I will rejoice in you. God Most High, I praise your name. [3] My enemies turned to run from you, but they fell and were destroyed. [4] You listened to me from your throne like a good judge, and you decided that I was right. [5] You told the nations how wrong they were. You destroyed those evil people. You erased their names from our memory forever and ever. [6] The enemy is finished! You destroyed their cities. There is nothing left to remind us of them. [7] The LORD set up his throne to bring justice, and he will rule forever. [8] He judges everyone on earth fairly. He judges all nations honestly. [9] Many people are suffering- crushed by the weight of their troubles. But the LORD is a refuge for them, a safe place they can run to. [10] LORD, those who know your name come to you for protection. And when they come, you do not leave them without help. [11] Sing praises to the LORD, who sits as King in Zion. Tell the nations about the great things he has done. [12] He punishes murderers and remembers those who are in need. When suffering people cry for help, he does not ignore them. [13] I said this prayer: "LORD, be kind to me. See how my enemies are hurting me. Save me from the 'gates of death.' [14] Then, at the gates of Jerusalem, I can sing praises to you. I will be so happy because you saved me." [15] Those other nations have fallen into the pit they dug to catch others. They have been caught in their own trap. [16] The LORD showed that he judges fairly. The wicked were caught by what they did to hurt others. Higgayon [17] The wicked will go to the place of death, as will all the nations that forget God. [18] It may seem that those who are poor and needy have been forgotten, but God will not forget them. He will not leave them without hope. [19] LORD, get up and judge the nations. Don't let anyone think they can win against you. [20] Teach them a lesson, LORD. Let them know they are only human. Selah
