A psalm of Asaph.
1O God, pagan nations have conquered your land,your special possession.They have defiled your holy Templeand made Jerusalem a heap of ruins.
2 They have left the bodies of your servantsas food for the birds of heaven.The flesh of your godly oneshas become food for the wild animals.
3 Blood has flowed like water all around Jerusalem;no one is left to bury the dead.
4 We are mocked by our neighbors,an object of scorn and derision to those around us.
5O LORD, how long will you be angry with us? Forever?How long will your jealousy burn like fire?
6 Pour out your wrath on the nations that refuse to acknowledge you—on kingdoms that do not call upon your name.
7 For they have devoured your people Israel, Hebrew devoured Jacob. See note on 44:4.making the land a desolate wilderness.
8 Do not hold us guilty for the sins of our ancestors!Let your compassion quickly meet our needs,for we are on the brink of despair.
9Help us, O God of our salvation!Help us for the glory of your name.Save us and forgive our sinsfor the honor of your name.
10 Why should pagan nations be allowed to scoff,asking, “Where is their God?”Show us your vengeance against the nations,for they have spilled the blood of your servants.
11 Listen to the moaning of the prisoners.Demonstrate your great power by saving those condemned to die.
12O Lord, pay back our neighbors seven timesfor the scorn they have hurled at you.
13 Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture,will thank you forever and ever,praising your greatness from generation to generation.
Sermon Central