[1] Truly God is good to Israel, To such as are pure in heart. [2] But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; My steps had nearly slipped. [3] For I was envious of the boastful, When I saw the prosperity of the wicked. [4] For there are no pangs in their death, But their strength is firm. [5] They are not in trouble as other men, Nor are they plagued like other men. [6] Therefore pride serves as their necklace; Violence covers them like a garment. [7] Their eyes bulge with abundance; They have more than heart could wish. [8] They scoff and speak wickedly concerning oppression; They speak loftily. [9] They set their mouth against the heavens, And their tongue walks through the earth. [10] Therefore his people return here, And waters of a full cup are drained by them. [11] And they say, "How does God know? And is there knowledge in the Most High?" [12] Behold, these are the ungodly, Who are always at ease; They increase in riches. [13] Surely I have cleansed my heart in vain, And washed my hands in innocence. [14] For all day long I have been plagued, And chastened every morning. [15] If I had said, "I will speak thus," Behold, I would have been untrue to the generation of Your children. [16] When I thought how to understand this, It was too painful for me- [17] Until I went into the sanctuary of God; Then I understood their end. [18] Surely You set them in slippery places; You cast them down to destruction. [19] Oh, how they are brought to desolation, as in a moment! They are utterly consumed with terrors. [20] As a dream when one awakes, So, Lord, when You awake, You shall despise their image. [21] Thus my heart was grieved, And I was vexed in my mind. [22] I was so foolish and ignorant; I was like a beast before You. [23] Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand. [24] You will guide me with Your counsel, And afterward receive me to glory. [25] Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You. [26] My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. [27] For indeed, those who are far from You shall perish; You have destroyed all those who desert You for harlotry. [28] But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, That I may declare all Your works.
