Psalms 50

One of Asaph's songs.

<1> The Lord God Most Powerful has spoken.

He calls to all the people on earth, from the rising to the setting of the sun.

<2> God appeared from Zion,[270]

the city of perfect beauty.[271]

<3> Our God is coming,

and he will not keep quiet.

Fire burns in front of him.

There is a great storm around him.

<4> Our God calls to the earth and sky

to be witnesses as he judges his people.

<5> He says,

"My followers, gather around me.

Come, my worshipers, who made an agreement with me."

<6> God is the judge,

and the skies tell about his goodness.

Selah[272]

<7> God says,

"My people, listen to me!

People of Israel,[273] I will show my evidence against you.

I am God, your God.

<8> The problem I have with you is not your sacrifices[274]

or the burnt offerings[275] you bring to me every day.

<9> Why would I want more bulls from your barns

or goats from your pens?

<10> I already own all the animals in the forest.

I own all the animals on a thousand hills.

<11> I know every bird in the mountains.

Everything that moves in the fields is mine.

<12> If I were hungry, I would not ask you for food.

I already own the world and everything in it.

<13> I don't eat the meat of bulls

or drink the blood of goats."

<14> You made promises to God Most High,

so give him what you promised.

Bring your sacrifices and thank offerings.[276]

<15> God says,

"Call me when trouble comes.

I will help you, and you will honor me."

<16> God says to the wicked,

"Stop quoting my laws!

Stop talking about my Agreement!

<17> Why? Because you hate for me to tell you what to do!

You ignore what I say!

<18> You see a thief,

and you run to join him.

You jump into bed with those who commit adultery.[277]

<19> You say evil things and tell lies.

<20> You sit around talking about people

and finding fault with your own brothers.

<21> You did this, and I said nothing.

So you thought I was just like you.

Well, I will not be quiet any longer.

I will correct you

and make it very clear to you.

<22> You people who have forgotten God,

understand what I am telling you,

or I will tear you apart,

and no one will be able to save you!

<23> Whoever gives a thank offering

shows me honor.

And whoever decides to live right

will see my power to save."