[1] Praise the LORD, for it is good to sing praises to our God. Yes, praise is pleasant and appropriate. [2] The LORD rebuilds Jerusalem, and gathers the exiles of Israel. [3] He heals the brokenhearted, and bandages their wounds. [4] He counts the number of the stars; he names all of them. [5] Our Lord is great and has awesome power; there is no limit to his wisdom. [6] The LORD lifts up the oppressed, but knocks the wicked to the ground. [7] Offer to the LORD a song of thanks. Sing praises to our God to the accompaniment of a harp. [8] He covers the sky with clouds, provides the earth with rain, and causes grass to grow on the hillsides. [9] He gives food to the animals, and to the young ravens when they chirp. [10] He is not enamored with the strength of a horse, nor is he impressed by the warrior's strong legs. [11] The LORD takes delight in his faithful followers, and in those who wait for his loyal love. [12] Extol the LORD, O Jerusalem. Praise your God, O Zion. [13] For he makes the bars of your gates strong. He blesses your children within you. [14] He brings peace to your territory. He abundantly provides for you the best grain. [15] He sends his command through the earth; swiftly his order reaches its destination. [16] He sends the snow that is white like wool; he spreads the frost that is white like ashes. [17] He throws his hailstones like crumbs. Who can withstand the cold wind he sends? [18] He then orders it all to melt; he breathes on it, and the water flows. [19] He proclaims his word to Jacob, his statutes and regulations to Israel. [20] He has not done so with any other nation; they are not aware of his regulations. Praise the LORD!
