[1] The LORD is great and is to be highly praised in the city of our God, on his sacred hill. [2] Zion, the mountain of God, is high and beautiful; the city of the great king brings joy to all the world. [3] God has shown that there is safety with him inside the fortresses of the city. [4] The kings gathered together and came to attack Mount Zion. [5] But when they saw it, they were amazed; they were afraid and ran away. [6] There they were seized with fear and anguish, like a woman about to bear a child, [7] like ships tossing in a furious storm. [8] We have heard what God has done, and now we have seen it in the city of our God, the LORD Almighty; he will keep the city safe forever. [9] Inside your Temple, O God, we think of your constant love. [10] You are praised by people everywhere, and your fame extends over all the earth. You rule with justice; [11] let the people of Zion be glad! You give right judgments; let there be joy in the cities of Judah! [12] People of God, walk around Zion and count the towers; [13] take notice of the walls and examine the fortresses, so that you may tell the next generation: [14] "This God is our God forever and ever; he will lead us for all time to come."
