A Davidic instruction.a

The Blessings of Forgiveness

1How blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven,

whose sin is covered.

2How blessed is the person against whom the LORD does not charge iniquity,

and in whose spirit there is no deceit.

3When I kept silent about my sin,b

my bodyc wasted away

by my groaning all day long.

4For your hand was heavy upon me day and night;

my strength was exhausted

as in a summer drought.

Interlude

5My sin I acknowledged to you;

my iniquity I did not hide.

I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD.”

And you forgave the guilt of my sin!

Interlude

6Therefore every godly person should pray to you at such a time.d

Surely a flood of great waters will not reach him.

7You are my hiding place;

you will deliver me from trouble

and surround me with shouts of deliverance.

Interlude

8I will instruct you and teach you

concerning the path you should walk;

I will direct you with my eye.

9Don’t be like a horse or mule,

without understanding.

They are held in check by a bit and bridle in their mouths;

otherwise they will not remain near you.

10The wicked have many sorrows,

but gracious love surrounds those who trust in the LORD.

11Righteous ones, be glad in the LORD and rejoice!

Shout for joy, all of you who are upright in heart!