^57Thou my sure portion art alone,

which I did chuse, O Lord:

I have resolv'd, and said, that I

would keep thy holy word.

^58With my whole heart I did entreat

thy face and favour free:

According to thy gracious word

be merciful to me.

^59I thought upon my former ways,

and did my life well try;

And to thy testimonies pure

my feet then turned I.

^60I did not stay, nor linger long,

as those that slothful are;

But hastily thy laws to keep

myself I did prepare.

^61Bands of ill men me robb'd; yet I

thy precepts did not slight.

^62I'll rise at midnight thee to praise,

ev'n for thy judgments right.

^63I am companion to all those

who fear, and thee obey.

^64O Lord, thy mercy fills the earth:

teach me thy laws, I pray.