1 Hallelujah! Praise the LORD, my soul!

2 I want to praise the LORD throughout my life. I want to make music to praise my God as long as I live.

3 Do not trust influential people, mortals who cannot help you.

4 When they breathe their last breath, they return to the ground. On that day their plans come to an end.

5 Blessed are those who receive help from the God of Jacob. Their hope rests on the LORD their God,

6 who made heaven, earth, the sea, and everything in them. The LORD remains faithful forever.

7 He brings about justice for those who are oppressed. He gives food to those who are hungry. The LORD sets prisoners free.

8 The LORD gives sight to blind people. The LORD straightens [the backs]of those who are bent over. The LORD loves righteous people.

9 The LORD protects foreigners. The LORD gives relief to orphans and widows. But he keeps wicked people from reaching their goal.

10 The LORD rules as king forever. Zion, your God rules throughout every generation. Hallelujah!