Psalms 119:1-32

Our LORD, you bless everyone who lives right and obeys your Law. You bless all those who follow your commands from deep in their hearts and who never do wrong or turn from you. You have ordered us always to obey your teachings; I don't ever want to stray from your laws. Thinking about your commands will keep me from doing some foolish thing. I will do right and praise you by learning to respect your perfect laws. I will obey all of them! Don't turn your back on me. Young people can live a clean life by obeying your word. I worship you with all my heart. Don't let me walk away from your commands. I treasure your word above all else; it keeps me from sinning against you. I praise you, LORD! Teach me your laws. With my own mouth, I tell others the laws that you have spoken. Obeying your instructions brings as much happiness as being rich. I will study your teachings and follow your footsteps. I will take pleasure in your laws and remember your words. Treat me with kindness, LORD, so that I may live and do what you say. Open my mind and let me discover the wonders of your Law. I live here as a stranger. Don't keep me from knowing your commands. What I want most and at all times is to honor your laws. You punish those boastful, worthless nobodies who turn from your commands. Don't let them sneer and insult me for following you. I keep thinking about your teachings, LORD, even if rulers plot against me. Your laws are my greatest joy! I follow their advice. I am at the point of death. Let your teachings breathe new life into me. When I told you my troubles, you answered my prayers. Now teach me your laws. Help me to understand your teachings, and I will think about your marvelous deeds. I am overcome with sorrow. Encourage me, as you have promised to do. Keep me from being deceitful, and be kind enough to teach me your Law. I am determined to be faithful and to respect your laws. I follow your rules, LORD. Don't let me be ashamed. I am eager to learn all that you want me to do; help me to understand more.