[1] Happy are those who think about the poor. When trouble comes, the LORD will save them. [2] The LORD will protect them and spare their life and will bless them in the land. He will not let their enemies take them. [3] The LORD will give them strength when they are sick, and he will make them well again. [4] I said, "LORD, have mercy on me. Heal me, because I have sinned against you." [5] My enemies are saying evil things about me. They say, "When will he die and be forgotten?" [6] Some people come to see me, but they lie. They just come to get bad news. Then they go and gossip. [7] All my enemies whisper about me and think the worst about me. [8] They say, "He has a terrible disease. He will never get out of bed again." [9] My best and truest friend, who ate at my table, has even turned against me. [10] LORD, have mercy on me. Give me strength so I can pay them back. [11] Because my enemies do not defeat me, I know you are pleased with me. [12] Because I am innocent, you support me and will let me be with you forever. [13] Praise the LORD, the God of Israel. He has always been, and he will always be. Amen and amen.
