Psalm 138

Contemporary English Version

(By David.)

Praise the Lord with All Your Heart

¹With all my heart
    I praise you, Lord.
In the presence of angels^[a]
    I sing your praises.
²I worship at your holy temple
and praise you for your love
    and your faithfulness.
You were true to your word
and made yourself more famous
    than ever before.^[b]
³When I asked for your help,
you answered my prayer
    and gave me courage.^[c]

⁴All kings on this earth
have heard your promises, Lord,
    and they will praise you.
⁵You are so famous
that they will sing about
    the things you have done.
⁶Though you are above us all,
    you care for humble people,
and you keep a close watch
    on everyone who is proud.

⁷I am surrounded by trouble,
but you protect me
against my angry enemies.
With your own powerful arm
you keep me safe.

⁸You, Lord, will always
treat me with kindness.
Your love never fails.
You have made us what we are.
Don't give up on us now!^[d]

Footnotes

138.1 angels: Or “gods” or “supernatural beings” who worship and serve God in heaven; or possibly “rulers” or “leaders.”
138.2 You were … before: One possible meaning for the difficult Hebrew text.
138.3 and gave me courage: One possible meaning for the difficult Hebrew text.
138.8 You have … now: Or “Please don't desert your people.”