1[For the choir director; a psalm by David when the prophet Nathan came to him after David's adultery with Bathsheba.] Have pity on me, O God, in keeping with your mercy. In keeping with your unlimited compassion, wipe out my rebellious acts.

2Wash me thoroughly from my guilt, and cleanse me from my sin.

3I admit that I am rebellious. My sin is always in front of me.

4I have sinned against you, especially you. I have done what you consider evil. So you hand down justice when you speak, and you are blameless when you judge.

5Indeed, I was born guilty. I was a sinner when my mother conceived me.

6Yet, you desire truth and sincerity. Deep down inside me you teach me wisdom.

7Purify me from sin with hyssop, and I will be clean. Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

8Let me hear [sounds of] joy and gladness. Let the bones that you have broken dance.

9Hide your face from my sins, and wipe out all that I have done wrong.

10Create a clean heart in me, O God, and renew a faithful spirit within me.

11Do not force me away from your presence, and do not take your Holy Spirit from me.

12Restore the joy of your salvation to me, and provide me with a spirit of willing obedience.

13[Then] I will teach your ways to those who are rebellious, and sinners will return to you.

14Rescue me from the guilt of murder, O God, my savior. Let my tongue sing joyfully about your righteousness!

15O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will tell about your praise.

16You are not happy with any sacrifice. Otherwise, I would offer one [to you]. You are not pleased with burnt offerings.

17The sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken spirit. O God, you do not despise a broken and sorrowful heart.

18Favor Zion with your goodness. Rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

19Then you will be pleased with sacrifices offered in the right spirit- with burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings. Young bulls will be offered on your altar.