Psalms 34

A song of David[176] when he pretended to be crazy so Abimelech would send him away, which he did.

<1> I will praise the Lord at all times.

I will never stop singing his praises.

<2> Humble people, listen and be happy,

while I brag about the Lord.

<3> Praise the Lord with me.

Let's honor his name.

<4> I went to the Lord for help, and he listened.

He saved me from all that I fear.

<5> Look to the Lord for help.

You will be accepted.

Don't be ashamed.[177]

<6> This poor man called to the Lord for help, and he heard me.

He saved me from all my troubles.

<7> The Lord's angel builds a camp around his followers

and protects them.

<8> Give the Lord a chance to show you[178]

how good he is.

What blessings there are for those who depend on him!

<9> The Lord's holy people should fear and respect him.

Those who respect him will always have what they need.

<10> Even strong lions get weak and hungry,

but those who go to Lord for help will have every good thing.

<11> Children, come and listen to me;

I will teach you to respect the Lord.

<12> Do you want to enjoy life?

Do you want to have many happy days?

<13> Then avoid saying anything hurtful,

and never let a lie come out of your mouth.

<14> Stop doing anything evil, and do good.

Look for peace, and do all you can to help people live peacefully.

<15> The Lord watches over those who do what is right,

and he hears their prayers.

<16> But the Lord is against those who do evil,

so they are forgotten soon after they die.

<17> Pray to the Lord, and he will hear you.

He will save you from all your troubles.

<18> The Lord is close to those who have suffered disappointment.

He saves those who are discouraged.

<19> Good people might have many problems,

but the Lord will take them all away.

<20> He will protect them completely.

Not one of their bones will be broken.

<21> But troubles will kill the wicked.

The enemies of those who live right will all be punished.

<22> The Lord saves his servants.

All who go to him for protection will escape punishment.