When David heard in the desert that Nabal was shearing his sheep,

When the Arameans realized that they had been defeated by Israel, they consolidated their forces.

The waves of death engulfed me; the currents of chaos overwhelmed me.

He rescued me from my strong enemy, from those who hate me, for they were too strong for me.

He brought me out into a wide open place; he delivered me because he was pleased with me.

For I have obeyed the Lord’s commands; I have not rebelled against my God.

For I am aware of all his regulations, and I do not reject his rules.

Indeed, you are my lamp, Lord. The Lord illumines the darkness around me.

Indeed,with your help I can charge against an army; by my God’s power I can jump over a wall.

But evil people are like thorns – all of them are tossed away, for they cannot be held in the hand.

When Solomon was told that Shimei had gone from Jerusalem to Gath and had then returned,

But they pay no attention; instead they observe their earlier practices.

Though Judah was the strongest among his brothers and a leader descended from him, the right of the firstborn belonged to Joseph.)

For all the gods of the nations are worthless, but the Lord made the heavens.

Jotham grew powerful because he was determined to please the Lord his God.

Get up, for this matter concerns you. We are with you, so be strong and act decisively!”

because it did not shut the doors of my mother’s womb on me, nor did it hide trouble from my eyes!

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

For now I would be lying down and would be quiet, I would be asleep and then at peace

who rejoice even to jubilation, and are exultant when they find the grave?