Psalms 36

1 For the end, by David the servant of the Lord. The transgressor, that he may sin, says within himself, [that] there is no fear of God before his eyes.

For the music director. A psalm of David, servant of the Lord. Evil speaks to the wicked, deep down in their minds, for in their eyes they have no need to respect God.

2 For he has dealt craftily before him, to discover his iniquity and hate it.

In their own eyes they're so wonderful that they can't even see their sin and do something about it.

3 The words of his mouth are transgression and deceit: he is not inclined to understand [how] to do good.

Whatever they say is deceptive and deceitful. They no longer do anything wisely or for good.

4 He devises iniquity on his bed; he gives himself to every evil way; and does not abhor evil.

Even when they're lying in bed they think up evil schemes. They commit themselves to a way of life that is no good. They choose evil, and don't reject it.

5 O Lord, your mercy is in the heaven; and your truth [reaches] to the clouds.

Lord, your faithful love reaches to the heavens, your trustworthiness to the clouds.

6 Your righteousness is as the mountains of God, your judgements are as a great deep: O Lord, you will preserve men and beasts.

Your goodness is like the highest mountains, your fairness is like the deepest oceans. Lord, you save both the people and the animals.

7 How have you multiplied your mercy, O God! so the children of men shall trust in the shelter of your wings.

God, how priceless is your trustworthy love! Everyone can find protection under the shelter of your wings.

8 They shall be fully satisfied with the fatness of your house; and you shall cause them to drink of the full stream of your delights.

They gain strength from the wonderful food you provide in your house; you give them drink from your refreshing river.

9 For with you is the fountain of life: in your light we shall see light.

You are the source of life; you are the light by which we see.

10 Extend your mercy to them that know you; and your righteousness to the upright in heart.

Extend your trustworthy love to those who know you, and your goodness to those who truly live right.

11 Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of sinners move me.

Don't let the arrogant trample me down; don't let the wicked drive me out.

12 There have all the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast out, and shall not be able to stand.

Now look! See how those who do evil have fallen—thrown down, unable to get up.