₁Happy are those whose sins are forgiven,

whose wrongs are pardoned.

₂Happy is the one whom the LORD does not accuse of doing wrong

and who is free from all deceit.

₃When I did not confess my sins,

I was worn out from crying all day long.

₄Day and night you punished me, LORD;

my strength was completely drained,

as moisture is dried up by the summer heat.

₅Then I confessed my sins to you;

I did not conceal my wrongdoings.

I decided to confess them to you,

and you forgave all my sins.

₆So all your loyal people should pray to you in times of need;

when a great flood of trouble comes rushing in,

it will not reach them.

₇You are my hiding place;

you will save me from trouble.

I sing aloud of your salvation,

because you protect me.

₈The LORD says, “I will teach you the way you should go;

I will instruct you and advise you.

₉Don't be stupid like a horse or a mule,

which must be controlled with a bit and bridle

to make it submit.”

₁₀The wicked will have to suffer,

but those who trust in the LORD

are protected by his constant love.

₁₁You that are righteous, be glad and rejoice

because of what the LORD has done.

You that obey him, shout for joy!