Psalm 119:1-24
1Happy are they whose way is blameless, *
who walk in the law of the LORD!
2Happy are they who observe his decrees *
and seek him with all their hearts!
3Who never do any wrong, *
but always walk in his ways.
4You laid down your commandments, *
that we should fully keep them.
5Oh, that my ways were made so direct *
that I might keep your statutes!
6Then I should not be put to shame, *
when I regard all your commandments.
7I will thank you with an unfeigned heart, *
when I have learned your righteous judgments.
8I will keep your statutes; *
do not utterly forsake me.
Beth In quo corrigit?
9How shall a young man cleanse his way? *
By keeping to your words.
10With my whole heart I seek you; *
let me not stray from your commandments.
11I treasure your promise in my heart, *
that I may not sin against you.
12Blessed are you, O LORD; *
instruct me in your statutes.
13With my lips will I recite *
all the judgments of your mouth.
14I have taken greater delight in the way of your decrees *
than in all manner of riches.
15I will meditate on your commandments *
and give attention to your ways.
16My delight is in your statutes; *
I will not forget your word.
Gimel Retribue servo tuo
17Deal bountifully with your servant, *
that I may live and keep your word.
18Open my eyes, that I may see *
the wonders of your law.
19I am a stranger here on earth; *
do not hide your commandments from me.
20My soul is consumed at all times *
with longing for your judgments.
21You have rebuked the insolent; *
cursed are they who stray from your commandments!
22Turn from me shame and rebuke, *
for I have kept your decrees.
23Even though rulers sit and plot against me, *
I will meditate on your statutes.
24For your decrees are my delight, *
and they are my counselors.
A Prayer for our Country
Almighty God, who has given us this good land for our heritage: We humbly beseech you that we may always prove ourselves a people mindful of your favor and glad to do your will. Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning, and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties, and fashion us into one united people. Endue with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in your Name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that, through obedience to your law, we may show forth your praise among the nations of the earth. In the time of prosperity, fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in you to fail; all which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
