With what should I enter the Lord’s presence? With what should I bow before the sovereign God? Should I enter his presence with burnt offerings, with year-old calves?

The ropes of Sheol tightened around me; the snares of death trapped me.

Let’s enter his presence with thanksgiving! Let’s shout out to him in celebration!

I am up before dawn crying for help. I find hope in your word.

My eyes anticipate the nighttime hours, so that I can meditate on your word.

They confronted me in my day of calamity, but the Lord helped me.

Why did the knees welcome me, and why were there two breasts that I might nurse at them?

My heart is in turmoil unceasingly; the days of my affliction confront me.

The ropes of Sheol tightened around me, the snares of death trapped me.

They confronted me in my day of calamity, but the Lord helped me.

The God who loves me will help me; God will enable me to triumph over my enemies.

Singers walk in front; musicians follow playing their stringed instruments, in the midst of young women playing tambourines.

As for me, I cry out to you, O Lord; in the morning my prayer confronts you.

(Who has confronted me that I should repay? Everything under heaven belongs to me!)

Rise up, Lord! Confront him! Knock him down! Use your sword to rescue me from the wicked man!

For you bring him rich blessings; you place a golden crown on his head.

Do not hold us accountable for the sins of earlier generations! Quickly send your compassion our way, for we are in serious trouble!

Equity and justice are the foundation of your throne. Loyal love and faithfulness characterize your rule.

Bring out some water for the thirsty. You who live in the land of Tema, bring some food for the fugitives.

All the sinners among my people will die by the sword – the ones who say, ‘Disaster will not come near, it will not confront us.’