1Truly God is good to Israel, to the pure of heart. 2But as for me, my foot had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. 3For I was jealous of the boastful, when I saw the peace of the wicked. 4For there are no bonds in their death; but their belly is fat. 5They are not in trouble like other men; neither are they plagued like other men. 6Therefore pride is their necklace; violence covers them like a garment. 7Their eyes bulge with fatness; they have more than the heart could imagine. 8They scoff and speak of evil oppression; they speak arrogantly. 9They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongues walk through the earth. 10Therefore His people return here, and waters of a full cup are drained out to them. 11And they say, How does the Mighty God know? and, Is there knowledge in the Most High? 12Behold, these are the wicked, who are continually at ease; they increase in riches. 13Surely I have made my heart pure in vain, and washed my hands in innocence. 14For all day long I have been plagued, and chastened every morning. 15If I had said, I will speak thus; behold, I would have deceived a generation of Your sons. 16When I thought deeply in order to understand this, it was troublesome to me, 17until I went into the sanctuary of the Mighty God; then I understood their end. 18Surely You set them in slippery places; You cast them down to desolation. 19How have they been brought to desolation, as in a moment! They are fully brought to an end with destruction, 20like a dream when one awakes; so, O Lord, when You awake, You shall despise their image. 21For my heart was grieved and I was pierced to the core. 22I was so foolish and ignorant; I was like a beast before You. 23Nevertheless I am continually with You; You have held me by my right hand. 24You will lead me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. 25Whom have I in Heaven besides You? And there is no one I desire on earth. 26My flesh and my heart waste away; but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever. 27For lo, those who are far from You shall perish; You have destroyed all those who go whoring away from You. 28But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord Jehovah, to declare all Your works.