1How lovely are your dwelling places, O Jehovah of Hosts! 2How I want to be there! I long to be in Jehovah’s temple. With my whole being I sing for joy to the living God. 3Even small birds have built a nest, and the swallows have their own home. They keep their young near your altars O Jehovah my king and my God. 4How happy blessed are those who live in your temple always singing praise to you. 5How happy are those whose strength comes from you, who are eager to make the pilgrimage to Mount Zion. 6As they pass through the dry valley of Baca, it becomes a place of springs; the autumn rain fills it with pools. 7They grow stronger as they go and they will see the God of gods on Zion. 8Hear my prayer, Lord Jehovah of Hosts. Listen, O God of Jacob! 9Look at our shield, O God. Look with favor on the face of your anointed one. 10One day in your courtyards is better than a thousand anywhere else. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. 11For Jehovah God is a sun and shield. Jehovah will give favor and honor. He will not withhold blessing from those who walk faithfully in truth. 12O Jehovah of Hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in you.