1A David psalm Count yourself lucky, how happy you must be— you get a fresh start, your slate's wiped clean.
2Count yourself lucky— God holds nothing against you and you're holding nothing back from him.
3When I kept it all inside, my bones turned to powder, my words became daylong groans.
4The pressure never let up; all the juices of my life dried up.
5Then I let it all out; I said, "I'll make a clean breast of my failures to God." Suddenly the pressure was gone— my guilt dissolved, my sin disappeared.
6These things add up. Every one of us needs to pray; when all hell breaks loose and the dam bursts we'll be on high ground, untouched.
7God's my island hideaway, keeps danger far from the shore, throws garlands of hosannas around my neck.
8Let me give you some good advice; I'm looking you in the eye and giving it to you straight:
9"Don't be ornery like a horse or mule that needs bit and bridle to stay on track."
10God-defiers are always in trouble; God-affirmers find themselves loved every time they turn around.
11Celebrate God. Sing together—everyone! All you honest hearts, raise the roof!