136 The Psalms
Psalm 116
I love the LORD because he hears my cries for mercy;
he turns to listen to me, so I will call out all my days.
The cords of death wrapped round me;
the horrors of the grave got hold of me.
I felt only distress and sorrow.
Then taking the name of the LORD I cried out,
‘Please, LORD, save my life!’The LORD is gracious and just;
our God shows compassion.
The LORD watches over the helpless;
I was brought low, but he saved me.
Return to your rest, I say to myself,
because the LORD has been so good to you.You have saved my life from death,
kept my eyes from tears and my feet from stumbling.
I walk in the presence of the LORD
in the land of the living.
I trusted, even when I said,
‘I am very troubled.’
In my panic I even said,
‘Everyone is lying.’What can I give back to the LORD
for all the good he has showered on me?
I will lift up a cup of salvation
and call on the name of the LORD.
I will keep the promises I made to the LORD;
may it be in front of all his people!
The death of anyone who loves him
is a precious moment in the eyes of the LORD.
Surely LORD, I am your servant, a servant born in your family;
you have released me from my bondage.
I will bring a sacrifice of thanks to you
and I will call on the name of the LORD.