God loves compassionate people
A psalm of David. [1] For the music leader.
1It’ll be a happy life and sunny daysFor people who keep the poor in mind.
Then when problems come
The LORD comes, too, as problem-solver.
2The LORD protects compassionate folks.
He keeps them alive.
He blesses them.
He won’t let their enemies have them.
3When they get sick,
The LORD keeps them alive.
Then he makes them stronger,
Healthier, and well.
4As for me, however, I said,
“LORD, lay some kindness on me.
I’ve sinned against you.
So, I need you to make me right again.”
Enemies trash my name
5People who hate meSay hateful things about me.
“When will he drop dead,
So we can forget he ever lived?”
6Some pay me a visit and tell me lies.
They come for just one reason:
To leave with nasty gossip about me,
Which they broadcast as breaking news.
7They gather in cliques to badmouth me
And to wonder how much worse I could get.
8They say, “Something bad got hold of him.
Soon enough, he’ll wake up dead.”
9Even a buddy I trusted
Turned against me.
Someone who ate my food
Now stomps my good name.
10LORD, I’m asking you
To treat me kindly.
Lift me out of this mess
And let me give those people some payback.
11Then I’ll know we’re on good terms
Because you didn’t let my enemies win.
12Because I have kept my integrity,
I know I can count on your help,
Trusting you’re always close by.
13LORD, God of Israel,
You deserve non-stop praise
From eternity past to forever.
And that’s the truth. Absolutely. [2]
