Psalm 73

New Coverdale Version

Truly, God is loving to Israel, * even to those who have a clean heart.

Nevertheless, my feet had almost stumbled; * my steps had nearly slipped.

For I was envious of the proud * when I saw the ungodly in such prosperity.

For they are in no fear of death, * but their bodies are healthy and strong.

They come to no misfortune like other folk, * neither are they afflicted like others.

Therefore they wear pride as a necklace, * and they wrap themselves with violence as with a garment.

Their eyes swell with greed, * and their hearts overflow with wicked thoughts.

Their talk is malice and mockery; * they have proud looks, and tyrannous words are on their lips.

For they set their mouth against the heavens, * and their evil speech spreads through the world.

Therefore the people turn to them, * and find no fault in them.

They say, “How should God perceive it? * Is there knowledge in the Most High?”

Behold, these are the ungodly; * they prosper in their ways, and they have riches in possession.

I said, “Surely in vain have I cleansed my heart * and washed my hands in innocence.”

All the day long have I been afflicted, * and chastened every morning.

Indeed, had I spoken as they do, * then would I have betrayed the generation of your children.

When I sought to understand this, * it was too hard for me,

Until I went into the sanctuary of God; * then I understood their end.

Surely, you set them in slippery places, * and cast them down, and destroy them.

Oh, how suddenly are they consumed; * they perish and come to a fearful end.

Indeed, like a dream when one awakens, * so shall you make their image vanish out of the city.

Thus my heart was grieved, * and I was wounded within;

So foolish was I, and ignorant, * as if I were a beast before you.

Nevertheless, I am always with you, * for you hold me by my right hand.

You shall guide me with your counsel, * and after that receive me with glory.

Whom have I in heaven but you? * And there is no one on earth whom I desire in comparison with you.

Though my flesh and my heart fail me, * God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.

For behold, those who forsake you shall perish; * you destroy all those who are unfaithful to you.

But it is good for me to hold fast to God, to put my trust in the Lord God, * and to speak of all your works in the gates of the city of Zion.