Psalms 41:1-13

Happy are those who think about the poor. When trouble comes, the LORD will save them. The LORD will protect them and spare their life and will bless them in the land. He will not let their enemies take them. The LORD will give them strength when they are sick, and he will make them well again. I said, “LORD, have mercy on me. Heal me, because I have sinned against you.” My enemies are saying evil things about me. They say, “When will he die and be forgotten?” Some people come to see me, but they lie. They just come to get bad news. Then they go and gossip. All my enemies whisper about me and think the worst about me. They say, “He has a terrible disease. He will never get out of bed again.” My best and truest friend, who ate at my table, has even turned against me. LORD, have mercy on me. Give me strength so I can pay them back. Because my enemies do not defeat me, I know you are pleased with me. Because I am innocent, you support me and will let me be with you forever. Praise the LORD, the God of Israel. He has always been, and he will always be. Amen and amen.