when he responds to the prayer of the destitute, and does not reject their request.

For he knows what we are made of; he realizes we are made of clay.

to those who keep his covenant, who are careful to obey his commands.

The lions roar for prey, seeking their food from God.

Sing to him! Make music to him! Tell about all his miraculous deeds!

Seek the Lord and the strength he gives! Seek his presence continually!

saying, “Don’t touch my chosen ones! Don’t harm my prophets!”

He turned their water into blood, and killed their fish.

He ordered flies to come; gnats invaded their whole territory.

They rejected the fruitful land; they did not believe his promise.

Yet he took notice of their distress, when he heard their cry for help.

They repay me evil for good, and hate for love.

I am so starved my knees shake; I have turned into skin and bones.

Those who make them will end up like them, as will everyone who trusts in them.

I will serve the Lord in the land of the living.

I had faith when I said, “I am severely oppressed.”

The Lord severely punished me, but he did not hand me over to death.

The stone which the builders discarded has become the cornerstone.

You reprimand arrogant people. Those who stray from your commands are doomed.

I choose the path of faithfulness; I am committed to your regulations.