Verse 1
Praise the LORD, for it is good to sing praises to our God! Yes, praise is pleasant and appropriate!
Verse 2
The LORD rebuilds Jerusalem, and gathers the exiles of Israel.
Verse 3
He heals the brokenhearted, and bandages their wounds.
Verse 4
He counts the number of the stars; he names all of them.
Verse 5
Our Lord is great and has awesome power; there is no limit to his wisdom.
Verse 6
The LORD lifts up the oppressed, but knocks the wicked to the ground.
Verse 7
Offer to the LORD a song of thanks! Sing praises to our God to the accompaniment of a harp!
Verse 8
He covers the sky with clouds, provides the earth with rain, and causes grass to grow on the hillsides.
Verse 9
He gives food to the animals, and to the young ravens when they chirp.
Verse 10
He is not enamored with the strength of a horse, nor is he impressed by the warrior’s strong legs.
Verse 11
The LORD takes delight in his faithful followers, and in those who wait for his loyal love.
Verse 12
Extol the LORD, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion!
Verse 13
For he makes the bars of your gates strong. He blesses your children within you.
Verse 14
He brings peace to your territory. He abundantly provides for you the best grain.
Verse 15
He sends his command through the earth; swiftly his order reaches its destination.
Verse 16
He sends the snow that is white like wool; he spreads the frost that is white like ashes.
Verse 17
He throws his hailstones like crumbs. Who can withstand the cold wind he sends?
Verse 18
He then orders it all to melt; he breathes on it, and the water flows.
Verse 19
He proclaims his word to Jacob, his statutes and regulations to Israel.
Verse 20
He has not done so with any other nation; they are not aware of his regulations. Praise the LORD!