1
I love the LORD, because He hears [and continues to hear] My voice and my supplications (my pleas, my cries, my specific needs).
2
Because He has inclined His ear to me, Therefore I will call on Him as long as I live.
3
The cords and sorrows of death encompassed me, And the terrors of Sheol came upon me; I found distress and sorrow.
4
Then I called on the name of the LORD: "O LORD, please save my life!"
5
Gracious is the LORD, and [consistently] righteous; Yes, our God is compassionate.
6
[1]The LORD protects the simple (childlike); I was brought low [humbled and discouraged], and He saved me.
7
Return to your rest, O my soul, For the LORD has dealt bountifully with you.
8
For You have rescued my life from death, My eyes from tears, And my feet from stumbling and falling.
9
I will walk [in submissive wonder] before the LORD In the land of the living.
10
I believed [and clung to my God] when I said, "I am greatly afflicted."
11
I said in my alarm, "All men are liars."
12
What will I give to the LORD [in return] For all His benefits toward me? [How can I repay Him for His precious blessings?]
13
I will lift up the cup of salvation And call on the name of the LORD.
14
I will pay my vows to the LORD, Yes, in the presence of all His people.
15
[2]Precious [and of great consequence] in the sight of the LORD Is the death of His godly ones [so He watches over them].
16
O LORD, truly I am Your servant; I am Your servant, the son of Your handmaid; You have unfastened my chains.
17
I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call on the name of the LORD.
18
I will pay my vows to the LORD, Yes, in the presence of all His people,
19
In the courts of the Lord's house (temple)— In the midst of you, O Jerusalem. Praise the LORD! (Hallelujah!)