40:1   (A psalm by David for the music leader.) I patiently waited, LORD, for you to hear my prayer. You listened

40:2   and pulled me from a lonely pit full of mud and mire. You let me stand on a rock with my feet firm,

40:3   and you gave me a new song, a song of praise to you. Many will see this, and they will honor and trust you, the LORD God.

40:4   You bless all of those who trust you, LORD, and refuse to worship idols or follow false gods.

40:5   You, LORD God, have done many wonderful things, and you have planned marvelous things for us. No one is like you! I would never be able to tell all you have done.

40:6   Sacrifices and offerings are not what please you; gifts and payment for sin are not what you demand. But you made me willing to listen and obey.

40:7   And so, I said, "I am here to do what is written about me in the book, where it says,

40:8   'I enjoy pleasing you. Your Law is in my heart.' "

40:9   When your people worshiped, you know I told them, "Our LORD always helps!"

40:10   When all your people met, I did not keep silent. I said, "Our LORD is kind. He is faithful and caring, and he saves us."

40:11   You, LORD, never fail to have pity on me; your love and faithfulness always keep me secure.

40:12   I have more troubles than I can count. My sins are all around me, and I can't find my way. My sins outnumber the hairs on my head, and I feel weak.

40:13   Please show that you care and come to my rescue. Hurry and help me!

40:14   Disappoint and confuse all who want me dead; turn away and disgrace all who want to hurt me.

40:15   Embarrass and shame all of those who say, "Just look at you now!"

40:16   Our LORD, let your worshipers rejoice and be glad. They love you for saving them, so let them always say, "The LORD is wonderful!"

40:17   I am poor and needy, but, LORD God, you care about me, and you come to my rescue. Please hurry and help.