The Message Bible MSG
King James Version KJV
1 Clear my name, God; I've kept an honest shop. I've thrown in my lot with you, God, and I'm not budging.
1
Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.
2 Examine me, God, from head to foot, order your battery of tests. Make sure I'm fit inside and out
2
Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
3 So I never lose sight of your love, But keep in step with you, never missing a beat.
3
For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.
4 I don't hang out with tricksters, I don't pal around with thugs;
4
I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.
5 I hate that pack of gangsters, I don't deal with double-dealers.
5
I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.
6 I scrub my hands with purest soap, then join hands with the others in the great circle, dancing around your altar, God,
6
I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:
7 Singing God-songs at the top of my lungs, telling God-stories.
7
That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.
8 God, I love living with you; your house glows with your glory.
8
LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.
9 When it's time for spring cleaning, don't sweep me out with the quacks and crooks,
9
Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men:
10 Men with bags of dirty tricks, women with purses stuffed with bribe-money.
10
In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes.
11 You know I've been aboveboard with you; now be aboveboard with me.
11
But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.
12 I'm on the level with you, God; I bless you every chance I get.
12
My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.
The King James Version is in the public domain.