BLESSED ARE THOSE WHOSE WAYS ARE BLAMELESS

Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,
    who walk according to the law of the Lord.

Blessed are those who keep his statutes
    and seek him with all their heart—

they do no wrong
    but follow his ways.

You have laid down precepts
    that are to be fully obeyed.

Oh, that my ways were steadfast
    in obeying your decrees!

Then I would not be put to shame
    when I consider all your commands.

I will praise you with an upright heart
    as I learn your righteous laws.

I will obey your decrees;
    do not utterly forsake me.

How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
    By living according to your word.

I seek you with all my heart;
    do not let me stray from your commands.

I have hidden your word in my heart
    that I might not sin against you.

Praise be to you, Lord;
    teach me your decrees.

With my lips I recount
    all the laws that come from your mouth.

I rejoice in following your statutes
    as one rejoices in great riches.

I meditate on your precepts
    and consider your ways.

I delight in your decrees;
    I will not neglect your word.

Be good to your servant while I live,
    that I may obey your word.

Open my eyes that I may see
    wonderful things in your law.

I am a stranger on earth;
    do not hide your commands from me.

My soul is consumed with longing
    for your laws at all times.

You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed,
    those who stray from your commands.

Remove from me their scorn and contempt,
    for I keep your statutes.

Though rulers sit together and slander me,
    your servant will meditate on your decrees.

Your statutes are my delight;
    they are my counselors.

Psalm 119