Psalm 32

Beati quorum

Happy are they whose transgressions are forgiven, *

and whose sin is put away!

Happy are they to whom the Lord imputes no guilt, *

and in whose spirit there is no guile!

While I held my tongue, my bones withered away, *

because of my groaning all day long.

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

my moisture was dried up as in the heat of summer.

Then I acknowledged my sin to you, *

and did not conceal my guilt.

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

Then you forgave me the guilt of my sin.

Therefore all the faithful will make their prayers to you in time of trouble; *

when the great waters overflow, they shall not reach them.

You are my hiding-place;

you preserve me from trouble; *

you surround me with shouts of deliverance.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way that you should go; *

I will guide you with my eye.

Do not be like horse or mule, which have no understanding; *

who must be fitted with bit and bridle,

or else they will not stay near you.”

Great are the tribulations of the wicked; *

but mercy embraces those who trust in the Lord.

Be glad, you righteous, and rejoice in the Lord; *

shout for joy, all who are true of heart.

Psalm 143

Domine, exaudi

Lord, hear my prayer,

and in your faithfulness heed my supplications; *

answer me in your righteousness.

Enter not into judgment with your servant, *

for in your sight shall no one living be justified.

For my enemy has sought my life;

he has crushed me to the ground; *

he has made me live in dark places like those who are long dead.

My spirit faints within me; *

my heart within me is desolate.

I remember the time past;

I muse upon all your deeds; *

I consider the works of your hands.

I spread out my hands to you; *

my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land.

O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; *

do not hide your face from me

or I shall be like those who go down to the Pit.

Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning,

for I put my trust in you; *

show me the road that I must walk,

for I lift up my soul to you.

Deliver me from my enemies, O Lord, *

for I flee to you for refuge.

Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; *

let your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

Revive me, O Lord, for your Name’s sake; *

for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Of your goodness, destroy my enemies

and bring all my foes to naught, *

for truly I am your servant.