#and he is integral to numbskull’s character

[teecupangel]

The way Numbskull feels like shay in regards of going "okay shit, the fraction I'm with ain't great and this conflicts with my moral code" in most headcannons has got to be my favorite thing, cause while yes Numbskull does agree to be a templar in cannon it feels like they do so very reluctantly in a act of self preservation.

Wanna make this all the more crazy? What if somehow Numbskull is a very distant relative or their friends with a direct descendant of the cormac bloodline who isn't involved with Abstergo

I mean… I can’t blame Numbskull for becoming a Templar considering Berg did this:

There was never really a choice for Numbskull and that’s the kind of bullshit that stays with a person. Numbskull never had a choice and it all started with Shay Cormac’s memories so I like to portray them as having complicated feelings for Shay. Their time in his memories made them ‘care’ for Shay but, at the same time, they also can’t help but blame Shay as the reason they’re stuck with the Templars right now.

So, given a chance, they’d definitely go ‘rogue’ because, hey, that’s what Shay did, right? And Shay should agree with their actions since they were fighting against an organization that would not listen to them, that would only use them to further their own agenda without any remorse on the collateral damage their actions would make.

If we really want to dig into Shay how joining the Templars would pan out centuries from his time, just make Numbskull say:

“I’m just following your footsteps, Mister Cormac.”

Also…

There is a way for Numbskull to be friends with a direct descendant of the Cormac Bloodline and we have two options.

Option 1: Javier Mondragón of the Assassin Brotherhood

He’s one of the main characters of Assassin's Creed: Last Descendants but he’s a teenager by the time of Rogue so he and Numbskull (who is most definitely around their 20s or more) wouldn’t necessarily be friends. What would be interesting is if Numbskull was one of the Abstergo employees who were ordered to retrieve the prongs of the Trident of Eden and their paths (and blades) crossed with Javier bleeding as Shay’s grandson, Cudgel. We can even have a reluctant bitter grandfather and a rebelling grandson thing going on with them.

Option 2: Alannah Ryan of the Assassin Brotherhood

It was implied in Odyssey that Alannah, one of Layla’s teammates, was Shay’s descendant:

So, in this scenario, Numbskull would be older than Alannah but their relationship would be more on an equal footing type of scenario. Numbskull might even feel protective of her as Shay’s bleed might be reminded of someone Shay cared about. If you want it to be romantic, it could be Shay’s wife. If you want it to be more like a case of found family, Alannah might remind them of Shay’s child (the eldest daughter perhaps?).

Either option could also work to give Numbskull the chance (and the courage) to finally defect as well if you want to go down that route.

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.

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Sidenote to the OC-centric AC idea I had:

Atoli was meant to serve as a red herring for Numbskull’s identity and the plot twist was that Numbskull left Abstergo but didn’t exactly join the Assassins. However, it was Atoli who helped them leave. In exchange, Numbskull helps Atoli in secret, taking the codename ‘Johnny’ and they know that they’re receiving each other’s call/message when they hear the sea shanty ‘Leave her, Johnny’.

[evanpeterswifeyyy]

I’m probably gonna get dog-piled for this, but as a fan of OBX, I don’t understand the hype about Rafe at all.

I can see his visual appeal and the fact that some of yall are into more violent characters (can’t judge, me too). But the entire time while watching the show, I only saw him as a whiney bitch who acted like a numbskull who could only get things done through violence and acting like a big guard dog for the wrong people. I mean, maybe I misinterpreted his character, but that’s how I see him.

So other than at a very basic level, I don’t see the appeal. Feel free to enlighten me if you feel strongly.

Quick side note for those who don’t see my additional replies:

Thank you everyone for your input, I respect your love for the character and this is not an attack.

I kind of worded this wrong, but I do think Rafe is a good and emotionally developed character in the show. The way I described him was more of a summary/ based on an idea that he is not some big dom ‘throw you across the room’ daddy as I’ve seen him portrayed in countless fanfictions. His character has integrity and potential, and I genuinely feel it has been diminished because of the sexualization of the actor instead of understanding his actual character. I don’t think Rafe is violent because that’s how he is (or that he’s some dommy daddy type action). That was my point when describing him that way, which looking back was messy.

My point was—Rafe and his violence is not supposed to be attractive because it’s not who he is. He uses it to get approval. You can tell that underneath he has heart and is redeemable. But I think that there are people in the OBX community that took his violent nature to heart instead of understanding the character and used it to make him more desirable. Hope this clarification helped in this discussion.

I do read all of your replies but I think I said what I needed to so far.

[hereditary-2018]

this is such a good post even tho i feel like the numbskulls in the notes are really missing the point bc they have diluted it to mean “yeah sometimes villains do bad things!” it’s actually like. more than that.

the one character that came to mind first when i saw this post was ilberd from FFXIV. i think he’s a very very very relevant example of Character Does A Bad, But Still Sympathetic Thing, Narrative Unjustly Condemns Character—which is a reflection of thr WRITERS, not the fictional characters with no autonomy that are expressing a viewpoint of the people in charge of the story.

ilberd stages a political coup in order to obtain the power to liberate his country, which has been occupied by the game’s antagonistic imperial force for something like 2 decades. his people have faced not only the loss of their nation, denial of their national identity, but also extreme racism as they attempt to seek refuge in city-states elsewhere—from being explicitly denied asylum by the teehee cute forest people, to being forced to live in poor conditions in a desert settlement while their labor is exploited by a local memelord libertarian casino owner.

the game has never framed ilberd as anything other than an unrepentant villain for choosing to wield catastrophic power, and sacrificing his life, for the sake of his nation’s future. the writers even rubbed salt in the wound in Endwalker by having him show up in the form of a bitter, malcontented spirit who attempts to stop the hero on their journey. this is after his country WAS liberated, after his death. so even in death, he knows no peace. he is continually punished by the narrative for doing a “Bad Thing” in pursuit of his people’s freedom. the dungeon in which you encounter his corrupted spirit places him alongside dead imperial officers—the people on the top of the hierarchal pyramid in the army that occupied his country for years—and a genocidal mad scientist.

there are living former imperial officers in the game who defected from their posts and received not even a slap on the wrist before being integrated into the larger story, one portrayed as a tormented dad who Saw The Error Of His Ways and the other a comedic relief tsukkomi-type character, half of a wildly popular and fandom-beloved ship.

so. what does it mean what does it all mean. the brutal, unforgiving villainization of ilberd comes from the personal biases of the writers. in a game that often has a well-meaning (war is bad, altruism is good) but sloppy execution of complicated political concepts, there is a consistent, clear difference between the characters who are irredeemably bad and remain condemned by the narrative in death versus characters that are given sympathy and the freedom to continue living.

it is certainly no coincidence that the characters written in the least sympathetic manner are from the Occupied nations, while the redeemed, second-chance characters are from the Occupier nation.

anyway it just honestly gets me heated. maybe “LET VILLAINS DO BAD THINGS” dumbdumbs would’t be as annoying as they are if they put even a fraction of that energy into understanding and sympathizing with unfairly condemned characters of marginalized identities.

[recentanimenews]

Komi Can’t Communicate, Vol. 2

By Tomohito Oda. Originally released in Japan as “Komi-san wa Komyushou Desu” by Shogakukan, serialization ongoing in the magazine Shonen Sunday. Released in North America by Viz Media. Translated by John Werry.

I had honestly expected that Komi, like most manga I review, would get a Vol. 1 review and then go to the Bookshelf Briefs pile. Then those four chapters happened. In the aftermath of those, I got a number of folks reassuring me that this is as bad as it gets and that I won’t have another plot quite like this, which OK. All manga have growing pains, and if I read and supported Teru Teru x Shonen I can move past this. But Christ on a bike. In any case, let’s first discuss all the OTHER chapters in the book, which are cute and advance the premise. Komi tries ramen, Komi goes clothes shopping for the first time, Komi and Tadano share an umbrella in a moment that would be really shippy if I thought the series was going to move in that direction, which I don’t. It continues to build on the strong premise at the start, has some really funny gags, introduces two new “eccentric” characters who are not literal criminals… OK, yeah, let’s talk Ren Yamai.

Here’s me in the review of Vol. 1: Likewise one of the minor characters in this book, Yamai, reads like a worryingly stereotypical psycho lesbian, and I really hope it doesn’t go down that road. Well, I was right to worry. The four chapters named “Ren” focus on Yamai, her obsession over Komi, and her realization that Tadano is in the way. She proceeds to kidnap Tadano and leave him tied in a chair in her bedroom while she goes to school to get closer to Komi. Later, after inviting Komi to her house (?!?!), she hides Tadano in the closet, then after he is found breaks down and confesses “I did it for you!” My teeth ground, my toes curled. The series wants to be funny overall, hence why Yamai actually invites Komi to her home like a numbskull – but she’s literally kidnapped and threatened Tadano – and still does after “apologizing”. It’s absolutely dire.

The really frustrating thing is that these four chapters also contain the BEST part of the book, which is Komi’s reaction to all of this. After discovering Tadano and hearing Yamai’s “explanation” for what happened, Komi’s “I decide who’s my friend” is a punch the air moment. Likewise the chapter afterwards, where Komi feels guilty for being the “cause” of all this, and tries to break off with Tadano only to have her own words turned back at her, is incredibly sweet and caring, and it would ALMOST be worth all the previous garbage if Yamai’s apology wasn’t an excuse to having her join the cast herd. She gets no real punishment for her actions, and seemingly integrates with the rest of Komi’s friends afterwards, with only one or two token “lol obsessed with Komi” jokes for the rest of the book. Honestly, she needed to leave the school and never be seen again.

So yeah, it’s one of THOSE volumes. You can’t even advise readers to just skip it, as the stuff with Komi and Tadano is the best part of the volume. You just have to read it while screaming and cursing. Not a good look for a lighthearted, heartwarming comedy about making friends.

By: Sean Gaffney

[dfroza]

Today’s reading from the ancient book of Proverbs and book of Psalms

for january 17 of 2022 with Proverbs 17 and Psalm 17, accompanied by Psalm 28 for the 28th day of Astronomical Winter

[Proverbs 17]

[Wisdom’s Virtues]

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet

is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing

but quarrels and strife at home.

A wise, intelligent servant will be honored above a shameful son.

He’ll even end up having a portion left to him in his master’s will.

In the same way that gold and silver are refined by fire,

the Lord purifies your heart by the tests and trials of life.

Those eager to embrace evil listen to slander,

for a liar loves to listen to lies.

Mock the poor, will you?

You insult your Creator every time you do!

If you make fun of others’ misfortune,

you’d better watch out—your punishment is on its way.

Grandparents have the crowning glory of life:

grandchildren!

And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents.

It is not proper for a leader to lie and deceive,

and don’t expect excellent words to be spoken by a fool.

Wise instruction is like a costly gem.

It turns the impossible into success.

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships.

One word of correction breaks open a teachable heart,

but a fool can be corrected a hundred times

and still not know what hit him.

Rebellion thrives in an evil man,

so a messenger of vengeance will be sent to punish him.

It’s safer to meet a grizzly bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a reckless fool.

The one who returns evil for good

can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life.

Don’t be one who is quick to quarrel,

for an argument is hard to stop,

and you never know how it will end,

so don’t even start down that road!

There is nothing God hates more

than condemning the one who is innocent

and acquitting the one who is guilty.

Why pay tuition to educate a fool?

For he has no intention of acquiring true wisdom.

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble.

It’s stupid to run up bills you’ll never be able to pay

or to cosign for the loan of your friend.

Save yourself the trouble and don’t do either one.

If you love to argue,

then you must be in love with sin.

For the one who loves to boast is only asking for trouble.

The one with a perverse heart never has anything good to say,

and the chronic liar tumbles into constant trouble.

Parents of a numbskull will have many sorrows,

for there’s nothing about his lifestyle that will make them proud.

A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul.

But the one whose heart is crushed

struggles with sickness and depression.

When you take a secret bribe,

your actions reveal your true character,

for you pervert the ways of justice.

Even the face of a wise man shows his intelligence.

But the wandering eyes of a fool will look for wisdom everywhere

except right in front of his nose.

A father grieves over the foolishness of his child,

and bitter sorrow fills his mother.

It’s horrible to persecute a holy lover of God

or to strike an honorable man for his integrity!

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That’s how you show that you are wise.

An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you’re facing.

When even a fool bites his tongue

he’s considered wise.

So shut your mouth when you are provoked—

it will make you look smart.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 17 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 17]

A prayer of David.

Listen, O Eternal One, to my cry for justice.

These words of mine are true—turn Your ear toward me.

Announce that I am free of all the charges against me—only You can see into my heart to know that to be true.

Treat me with fairness; look at me with justice.

You have searched me—my heart and soul—awakened me from dreaming and tested me.

You’ve found nothing against me.

I have resolved not to sin in what I say.

The path violent men have followed,

I will not travel. Violence is not my way.

Your ways and Your voice now guide my journey.

I will press on—moving steadfastly forward along Your path.

I will not look back. I will not stumble.

I am crying aloud to You, O True God, for I long to know Your answer.

Hear me, O God. Hear my plea. Hear my prayer for help.

Put Your marvelous love on display for all to see.

Liberator of those who long for shelter beside You,

set them safely away from their enemies, ever welcomed by grace.

Keep close watch over me as the apple of Your eye;

shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.

Protect me from the wicked who are poised to attack,

from the enemies swarming around me and closing in quickly.

Like clay baking in the sun, their hearts have hardened;

arrogance spills from their mouths.

They’ve tracked me down like quarry.

They’re surrounding me

and are poised to throw me down into the dirt.

Like a lion—crouching in the brush—they are ready to tear me apart.

Like young lions in their hiding places, they are poised to strike.

Rise up and confront them, O Eternal One! Make them pay.

By Your sword, set me free from my wicked enemies!

May Your rescue find me here.

By Your hand, save me from my enemies, Eternal One.

Save me from men whose hopes are rooted in this world.

But as for those You cherish,

may they feast on all You have set aside for them;

may their children never be in need;

may they have enough so their children will inherit their wealth.

But as for me, my hope is to see Your face.

When I am vindicated, I will look upon the holy face of God,

and when I awake, the longing of my soul will be satisfied in the glow of Your presence.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17 (The Voice)

[Psalm 28]

Don’t turn a deaf ear

when I call you, God.

If all I get from you is

deafening silence,

I’d be better off

in the Black Hole.

I’m letting you know what I need,

calling out for help

And lifting my arms

toward your inner sanctuary.

Don’t shove me into

the same jail cell with those crooks,

With those who are

full-time employees of evil.

They talk a good line of “peace,”

then moonlight for the Devil.

Pay them back for what they’ve done,

for how bad they’ve been.

Pay them back for their long hours

in the Devil’s workshop;

Then cap it with a huge bonus.

Because they have no idea how God works

or what he is up to,

God will smash them to smithereens

and walk away from the ruins.

Blessed be God—

he heard me praying.

He proved he’s on my side;

I’ve thrown my lot in with him.

Now I’m jumping for joy,

and shouting and singing my thanks to him.

God is all strength for his people,

ample refuge for his chosen leader;

Save your people

and bless your heritage.

Care for them;

carry them like a good shepherd.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 28 (The Message)

[kippentrash]

I don’t like to stick my nose in discourse and if I’m misconstruing anything that’s been said by all means correct me, but while I do think that post is pretty numbskulled and clearly disrespectful to claim Andi Mack only gained popularity because of Asher, I also do want to say that anyone disrespecting Asher for not going to the finale party is at the same level as this individual.

He DOES have a right to not go if he pleases, and though it is an honor to be a part of this show he has spoken of his appreciation of the show and it’s his own choice whether to go to the party or not. Though it did help him gain relevance, I would also like to say his acting and singing skills whether it be on or off the show are amazing and something he was able to build on as part of the show, but is due to his own efforts not SOLELY handed to him from the show. He doesn’t OWE Andi Mack anything, as much of an honor it must be to be part of such a historical show.

I do feel like even though Jonah wasn’t the best written character, Asher does deserve the recognition for playing him. Sure maybe someone else could have played him, but the fact that it was Asher is also why we do have the Jonah we DO now. Find him bland, charming, dense, dorky, annoying, comedic, whatever each individual may see, Jonah’s still a character who Asher brought to life in his own way with the help of the rest of the crew. It’s who we have and the show would different without him being how he is now.

He can be written off pretty easily, see the season 2 finale for example, but it definitely does take away a) a catalyst for conflict, chaos, and comedy and b) a now important part of the friend group since he’s integrated pretty well with the GHC. Taking him away would still change the dynamic about the same as when they took Luke away from the Ross kids in Bunk’d. Possible but still makes things feel different.

Sorry about this, it’s just both sides of this makes me uncomfortable... those saying Asher is nothing without the show and those saying the show is nothing without Asher... Asher HELPED make Andi Mack what it is today and Andi Mack HELPED Asher reach the point he is. It’s his choice to not attend the party for whatever reason it may be.

I know the other two who commented before me didn’t mean anything bad towards Asher in their comments, but just to anyone else with either the mindset of the person in the post or the mindset of those who are upset Asher wasn’t at the party, what’s done is done. All we can do is thank both the entire cast for the show and the show for what it’s done for us.

Anyway, let’s enjoy the last day before the finale finally drops and appreciate the last episode and everyone involved!

Lol, imagine only watching AM just to see Asher’s face and not Tyrus😂

These 12-year olds are really something.

[wiiindyblathers]

I love TAZ, Undertale, and magical girl warrior stuff, so if somebody found a way to combine all three of them i would probably die of happiness

Maybe take the concept of the Virtue Souls and assign them to a few TAZ characters, then give each Virtue Soul bearer a magical girl style power to make fighting evil a little easier

(Headcanons under the cut, I don’t want to flood people’s dashes)

Consider Magnus with a Soul of Kindness that gives him the ability to make plants grow and manipulate the earth. Railsplitter would have a field day, until he realizes, shit, this is draining his power, he needs to stop creating trees out of nowhere to chop down in one fell swipe, but if there’s one thing we know about Maggie it’s that he could not resist that opportunity. He has a bunch of low-maintenance plants in his room, as well as some starts for trees that he used to like making furniture out of. At one point, he started making little sculptures out of his friends around the Bureau - as well as some particularly fancy ones of the other reclaimers, and some people he knew before he began adventuring. The one he made for Julia is decorated with forget-me-nots and roses. Also, imagine him sneaking a dog onto the Moon Base and never having to sneak food to them because he can just conjure food instead with his cool new magic frying pan.

Taako would probably get Bravery. I have a mental image of him running around with the bandana tied around his waist, the ends flowing majestically in the wind as he whips out the classic “abra-ca-fuck-you” on a giant monster for the first time in ages. The gloves are too small and stubby for him, but has that ever stopped him before? He just puts them on his ears like earmuffs and gets a big hat that covers them. If anybody notices and point them out, he makes up some fashion-related excuse. His elemental power is fire, and he gets really emotional when he realizes that despite it, plants or poison still end up being what kills a lot of the people he cares about. He practices daily to find new ways to use his powers that help cleanse poison, but it’s just too destructive to work. He does get back into cooking, though, despite the fact than Maggie can just conjure food out of nowhere. He says he needs the practice. Honestly, he’s just trying to replace the traumatizing memories with something more productive, although he might be pushing himself just a little bit too much…

Merle would get Integrity, with water-based powers. He credits this partially to his devout belief in Pan (water is one of the most powerful forces in nature) and the fact he’s a beach dwarf.  It gets a lot more difficult for him to lie, which makes their missions a lot more difficult, but he’s also a lot more stubborn (if it’s possible) and is the one who powers through a lot of obstacles instead of Magnus, who tries his best to give Merle plenty of shields before he runs into a brawl. Maggie is still the team tank most of the time, but he’s gotten a bit of competition over these last few missions. Taako finds himself learning a lot more healing spells to make up for it. Merle and Garyl get a lot of bonding time, since Garyl ends up more of a phantom stretcher than phantom steed. Mookie thinks his dad’s super cool with all these awesome battle scars and “battle ballerina gear”, but Mavis isn’t sure what to think of it. She’s settled on something between “aesthetic disaster” and “numbskull” for the meantime.

The Soul of Perseverance would probably attach itself to the Director. Lucretia has been to hell and back - literally, if you take Wonderland into account. She wouldn’t use her powers much, so it’s unclear what she has in her arsenal, but most people theorize that it’s something more abstract than the others, channeled through her notebook… “Notebook” doesn’t really do her weapon justice, though. Imagine a dusty tome, almost a half meter thick, full of mysterious spells and sketches of things she’s encountered over the years. She rarely opens it unless she’s talking directly to the Reclaimers, but even then she never, ever opens it to the later pages. Many people believe that it might even be of a similar power level to the Grand Relics themselves, but nobody dares say so in front of her.

I like to think that Angus would be one of the BoB members who gets a Virtue Soul, too, but he might be a little young. I have a lot of ideas as to how it would get passed down to him, likely from Jenkins… Anyway, he’d be the wielder of Patience. Sure, he does just fine as the greatest detective in the land without it, but nonetheless, the Virtue Souls are fickle, and don’t always operate logically. He has a tendency to experiment with his powers a lot more than any of the adults, often under Taako’s guidance - which doesn’t always work out, as his powers are related to substances like glass, crystals, and ice, and the method his mentor uses to control his fire powers doesn’t translate to Angus’ so well. On a similar note, due to his interest for testing his abilities, Angus is the first one to hypothesize that they might be related to the Relics. He has told The Director about his theories, but she hasn’t given him much of an answer; even to Angus, it’s unclear whether she doesn’t know how to react or has ulterior motives. He hopes that it’s the former. Besides Taako, Lucretia is the only person he can talk to about his powers - and unlike Taako, Lucretia seems to understand his struggles.

Justice would most definitely go to Killian. It has a tendency to get in the way of her doing her job sometimes, as it likes to mess with her definition of “fairness”, but it balances that by making her stronger and more agile, thus allowing her to execute what she decides as justice more absolutely. If she was powerful before she was given the Soul of Justice, she’s an absolute war machine now. Carey admires her, despite the fact that their beliefs clash sometimes; coincidentally, Carey seems to be just about the only person Killian will bend the rules for. Eventually, it’s revealed that the Soul of Justice is torn between them; although they have greatly differing ideas as for how “righteous judgment” should work, they both want what’s best for everyone, and both of their approaches end in the same thing: good guys win, bad guys lose, and everyone gets what they need.

And as for Determination… I’m not sure where that would go. Initially, I thought it might be linked to Magnus, but that seems like too easy an answer. Maybe we’ll meet someone later who fits the bill more accurately.

Anyway, thanks for reading about my nonsensical AU-ish headcanons… What would this be called, anyway? The Adventure Souls? The Grouptale Zone?… Either way I’m proud of it

… also I kinda sorta want to tag Griffin and ask for some feedback but I know he’s probably super busy, plus I haven’t even finished the Suffering Game arc, so *shrug* maybe someday

[dfroza]

Today’s reading from the ancient book of Proverbs and book of Psalms

for november 17 of 2021 with Proverbs 17 and Psalm 17, accompanied by Psalm 57 for the 57th day of Astronomical Autumn and Psalm 21 for day 321 of the year (now with the consummate book of 150 Psalms in its 3rd revolution this year)

[Proverbs 17]

[Wisdom’s Virtues]

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet

is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing

but quarrels and strife at home.

A wise, intelligent servant will be honored above a shameful son.

He’ll even end up having a portion left to him in his master’s will.

In the same way that gold and silver are refined by fire,

the Lord purifies your heart by the tests and trials of life.

Those eager to embrace evil listen to slander,

for a liar loves to listen to lies.

Mock the poor, will you?

You insult your Creator every time you do!

If you make fun of others’ misfortune,

you’d better watch out—your punishment is on its way.

Grandparents have the crowning glory of life:

grandchildren!

And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents.

It is not proper for a leader to lie and deceive,

and don’t expect excellent words to be spoken by a fool.

Wise instruction is like a costly gem.

It turns the impossible into success.

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships.

One word of correction breaks open a teachable heart,

but a fool can be corrected a hundred times

and still not know what hit him.

Rebellion thrives in an evil man,

so a messenger of vengeance will be sent to punish him.

It’s safer to meet a grizzly bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a reckless fool.

The one who returns evil for good

can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life.

Don’t be one who is quick to quarrel,

for an argument is hard to stop,

and you never know how it will end,

so don’t even start down that road!

There is nothing God hates more

than condemning the one who is innocent

and acquitting the one who is guilty.

Why pay tuition to educate a fool?

For he has no intention of acquiring true wisdom.

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble.

It’s stupid to run up bills you’ll never be able to pay

or to cosign for the loan of your friend.

Save yourself the trouble and don’t do either one.

If you love to argue,

then you must be in love with sin.

For the one who loves to boast is only asking for trouble.

The one with a perverse heart never has anything good to say,

and the chronic liar tumbles into constant trouble.

Parents of a numbskull will have many sorrows,

for there’s nothing about his lifestyle that will make them proud.

A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul.

But the one whose heart is crushed

struggles with sickness and depression.

When you take a secret bribe,

your actions reveal your true character,

for you pervert the ways of justice.

Even the face of a wise man shows his intelligence.

But the wandering eyes of a fool will look for wisdom everywhere

except right in front of his nose.

A father grieves over the foolishness of his child,

and bitter sorrow fills his mother.

It’s horrible to persecute a holy lover of God

or to strike an honorable man for his integrity!

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That’s how you show that you are wise.

An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you’re facing.

When even a fool bites his tongue

he’s considered wise.

So shut your mouth when you are provoked—

it will make you look smart.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 17 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 17]

A prayer of David.

Listen, O Eternal One, to my cry for justice.

These words of mine are true—turn Your ear toward me.

Announce that I am free of all the charges against me—only You can see into my heart to know that to be true.

Treat me with fairness; look at me with justice.

You have searched me—my heart and soul—awakened me from dreaming and tested me.

You’ve found nothing against me.

I have resolved not to sin in what I say.

The path violent men have followed,

I will not travel. Violence is not my way.

Your ways and Your voice now guide my journey.

I will press on—moving steadfastly forward along Your path.

I will not look back. I will not stumble.

I am crying aloud to You, O True God, for I long to know Your answer.

Hear me, O God. Hear my plea. Hear my prayer for help.

Put Your marvelous love on display for all to see.

Liberator of those who long for shelter beside You,

set them safely away from their enemies, ever welcomed by grace.

Keep close watch over me as the apple of Your eye;

shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.

Protect me from the wicked who are poised to attack,

from the enemies swarming around me and closing in quickly.

Like clay baking in the sun, their hearts have hardened;

arrogance spills from their mouths.

They’ve tracked me down like quarry.

They’re surrounding me

and are poised to throw me down into the dirt.

Like a lion—crouching in the brush—they are ready to tear me apart.

Like young lions in their hiding places, they are poised to strike.

Rise up and confront them, O Eternal One! Make them pay.

By Your sword, set me free from my wicked enemies!

May Your rescue find me here.

By Your hand, save me from my enemies, Eternal One.

Save me from men whose hopes are rooted in this world.

But as for those You cherish,

may they feast on all You have set aside for them;

may their children never be in need;

may they have enough so their children will inherit their wealth.

But as for me, my hope is to see Your face.

When I am vindicated, I will look upon the holy face of God,

and when I awake, the longing of my soul will be satisfied in the glow of Your presence.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17 (The Voice)

[Psalm 57]

Triumphant Faith

To the Pure and Shining One

King David’s golden song of instruction composed when he hid from Saul in a cave

To the tune of “Do Not Destroy”

Please, God, show me mercy!

Open your grace-fountain for me,

for you are my soul’s true shelter.

I will hide beneath the shadow of your embrace,

under the wings of your cherubim,

until this terrible trouble is past.

I will cry out to you, the God of the highest heaven,

the mighty God, who performs all these wonders for me.

From heaven he will send a father’s help to save me.

He will trample down those who trample me.

Pause in his presence

He will always show me love

by his gracious and constant care.

I am surrounded by these fierce and brutal men.

They are like lions just wanting to tear me to shreds.

Why must I continue to live among these seething terrorists,

breathing out their angry threats and insults against me?

Lord God, be exalted as you soar throughout the heavens.

May your shining glory be seen in the skies!

Let it be seen high above over all the earth!

For they have set a trap for me.

Frantic fear has me overwhelmed.

But look! The very trap they set for me

has sprung shut upon themselves instead of me!

Pause in his presence

My heart, O God, is quiet and confident.

Now I can sing with passion your wonderful praises!

Awake, O my soul, with the music of his splendor-song!

Arise, my soul, and sing his praises!

My worship will awaken the dawn,

greeting the daybreak with my songs of praise!

Wherever I go, I will thank you, my God.

Among all the nations they will hear my praise songs to you.

Your love is so extravagant it reaches to the heavens;

your faithfulness so astonishing it stretches to the sky!

Lord God, be exalted as you soar throughout the heavens.

May your shining glory be shown in the skies!

Let it be seen high above all the earth!

The Book of Psalms, Poem 57 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 21]

For the worship leader. A song of David.

The king is glad because You, O Eternal, are strong.

In light of Your salvation, he is singing Your name.

You have given him all he could wish for.

After hearing his prayer, You withheld nothing.

[pause]

True blessings You lavished upon the king;

a crown of precious gold You placed upon his head.

His prayer was to live fully. You responded with even more—

a never-ending life to enjoy.

With Your help, his fame and glory have grown;

You raise him high and cover him in majesty.

You shower him with blessings that last forever;

he finds joy in knowing Your presence and loving You.

For the king puts his trust in the Eternal,

so he will not be shaken

because of the persistent love of the Most High God.

King, your hand will reach for all your enemies;

your right hand will seize all who hate you.

When you arrive at the battle’s edge,

you will seem to them a furnace.

For the fire of the Eternal’s anger, the heat of His wrath

will burn and consume them.

You will cut off their children,

lop off the branches of their family tree.

The earth will never know them,

nor will they ever be numbered among Adam’s kin.

When they scheme against you,

when they conspire their mischief, such efforts will be in vain.

At the sight of you, they will sound the retreat;

your bows, drawn back, will aim directly at their faces.

Put Your strength, Eternal One, on display for all to see;

we will sing and make music of Your mighty power.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 21 (The Voice)

[dfroza]

Today’s reading from the ancient book of Proverbs and book of Psalms

for September 17 of 2021 with Proverbs 17 and Psalm 17, accompanied by Psalm 90 for the 90th day of Astronomical Summer and Psalm 110 for day 260 of the year (now with the consummate book of 150 Psalms in its 2nd revolution this year)

[Proverbs 17]

[Wisdom’s Virtues]

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet

is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing

but quarrels and strife at home.

A wise, intelligent servant will be honored above a shameful son.

He’ll even end up having a portion left to him in his master’s will.

In the same way that gold and silver are refined by fire,

the Lord purifies your heart by the tests and trials of life.

Those eager to embrace evil listen to slander,

for a liar loves to listen to lies.

Mock the poor, will you?

You insult your Creator every time you do!

If you make fun of others’ misfortune,

you’d better watch out—your punishment is on its way.

Grandparents have the crowning glory of life:

grandchildren!

And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents.

It is not proper for a leader to lie and deceive,

and don’t expect excellent words to be spoken by a fool.

Wise instruction is like a costly gem.

It turns the impossible into success.

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships.

One word of correction breaks open a teachable heart,

but a fool can be corrected a hundred times

and still not know what hit him.

Rebellion thrives in an evil man,

so a messenger of vengeance will be sent to punish him.

It’s safer to meet a grizzly bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a reckless fool.

The one who returns evil for good

can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life.

Don’t be one who is quick to quarrel,

for an argument is hard to stop,

and you never know how it will end,

so don’t even start down that road!

There is nothing God hates more

than condemning the one who is innocent

and acquitting the one who is guilty.

Why pay tuition to educate a fool?

For he has no intention of acquiring true wisdom.

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble.

It’s stupid to run up bills you’ll never be able to pay

or to cosign for the loan of your friend.

Save yourself the trouble and don’t do either one.

If you love to argue,

then you must be in love with sin.

For the one who loves to boast is only asking for trouble.

The one with a perverse heart never has anything good to say,

and the chronic liar tumbles into constant trouble.

Parents of a numbskull will have many sorrows,

for there’s nothing about his lifestyle that will make them proud.

A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul.

But the one whose heart is crushed

struggles with sickness and depression.

When you take a secret bribe,

your actions reveal your true character,

for you pervert the ways of justice.

Even the face of a wise man shows his intelligence.

But the wandering eyes of a fool will look for wisdom everywhere

except right in front of his nose.

A father grieves over the foolishness of his child,

and bitter sorrow fills his mother.

It’s horrible to persecute a holy lover of God

or to strike an honorable man for his integrity!

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That’s how you show that you are wise.

An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you’re facing.

When even a fool bites his tongue

he’s considered wise.

So shut your mouth when you are provoked—

it will make you look smart.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 17 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 17]

A prayer of David.

Listen, O Eternal One, to my cry for justice.

These words of mine are true—turn Your ear toward me.

Announce that I am free of all the charges against me—only You can see into my heart to know that to be true.

Treat me with fairness; look at me with justice.

You have searched me—my heart and soul—awakened me from dreaming and tested me.

You’ve found nothing against me.

I have resolved not to sin in what I say.

The path violent men have followed,

I will not travel. Violence is not my way.

Your ways and Your voice now guide my journey.

I will press on—moving steadfastly forward along Your path.

I will not look back. I will not stumble.

I am crying aloud to You, O True God, for I long to know Your answer.

Hear me, O God. Hear my plea. Hear my prayer for help.

Put Your marvelous love on display for all to see.

Liberator of those who long for shelter beside You,

set them safely away from their enemies, ever welcomed by grace.

Keep close watch over me as the apple of Your eye;

shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.

Protect me from the wicked who are poised to attack,

from the enemies swarming around me and closing in quickly.

Like clay baking in the sun, their hearts have hardened;

arrogance spills from their mouths.

They’ve tracked me down like quarry.

They’re surrounding me

and are poised to throw me down into the dirt.

Like a lion—crouching in the brush—they are ready to tear me apart.

Like young lions in their hiding places, they are poised to strike.

Rise up and confront them, O Eternal One! Make them pay.

By Your sword, set me free from my wicked enemies!

May Your rescue find me here.

By Your hand, save me from my enemies, Eternal One.

Save me from men whose hopes are rooted in this world.

But as for those You cherish,

may they feast on all You have set aside for them;

may their children never be in need;

may they have enough so their children will inherit their wealth.

But as for me, my hope is to see Your face.

When I am vindicated, I will look upon the holy face of God,

and when I awake, the longing of my soul will be satisfied in the glow of Your presence.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17 (The Voice)

[Book Four]

[Psalm 90]

A prayer of Moses, a man of God.

Lord, You have always been our refuge.

Our ancestors made You their home long ago.

Before mountains were born,

before You fashioned the earth and filled it with life,

from ages past to distant futures,

You are truly God.

You turn people back to dust,

saying, “Go back to the dust, children of Adam.”

For You a thousand years is like a day when it is over,

a watch during the night;

there is no difference to You.

You release the waters of death to sweep mankind away in his slumber.

In the morning, we are blades of grass,

Growing rapidly under the sun but withering quickly;

yet in the evening, we fade and die, soon to be cut down.

For Your anger has consumed us.

Your wrath has shaken us to the core

and left us deeply troubled.

You have written our offenses before You—

the light of Your presence shines brightly on our secret sins,

and we can’t run or hide.

For all our days are spent beneath Your wrath;

our youth gives way to old age, and then

one day our years come to an end with a sigh.

We may journey through life for 70 years;

some may live and breathe 80 years—if we are strong.

Yet our time here is only toil and trouble;

soon our days are gone, and we fly away.

Who can truly comprehend the power unleashed by Your anger?

Your wrath matches the fear that is due to You.

Teach us to number our days

so that we may truly live and achieve wisdom.

How long will we wait here alone?

Return, O Eternal One, with mercy.

Rescue Your servants with compassion.

With every sun’s rising, surprise us with Your love,

satisfy us with Your kindness.

Then we will sing with joy and celebrate every day we are alive.

You have spent many days afflicting us with pain and sorrow;

now match those with years of unspent joy.

Let Your work of love be on display for all Your servants;

let Your children see Your majesty.

And then let the beauty and grace of the Lord—our God—rest upon us

and bring success to all we do;

yes, bring success to all we do!

The Book of Psalms, Poem 90 (The Voice)

[Psalm 110]

Messiah, King, and Priest

King David’s psalm

Yahweh said to my Lord, the Messiah:

“Sit with me as enthroned ruler

while I subdue your every enemy.

They will bow low before you

as I make them a footstool for your feet.”

Messiah, I know God himself will establish your kingdom

as you reign in Zion-glory.

For he says to you, “Rule in the midst of your enemies!”

Your people will be your love offerings.

In the day of your mighty power you will be exalted,

and in the brightness of your holy ones you will shine

as an army arising from the womb of the dawn,

anointed with the dew of your youth!

Yahweh has taken a solemn oath

and will never back away from it, saying,

“You are a priest for eternity, after the manner of Melchizedek!”

The Lord stands in full authority to shatter to pieces

the kings who stand against you

on the day he displays his terrible wrath.

He will judge every rebellious nation,

filling their battlefields with corpses,

and will shatter the strongholds of ruling powers.

Yet he himself will drink from his inheritance

as from a flowing brook;

refreshed by love he will stand victorious!

The Book of Psalms, Poem 110 (The Passion Translation)

[dfroza]

Today’s reading from the ancient book of Proverbs and book of Psalms

for july 17 of 2021 with Proverbs 17 and Psalm 17, accompanied by Psalm 28 for the 28th day of Summer and Psalm 48 for day 198 of the year (now with the consummate book of 150 Psalms in its 2nd revolution this year)

[Proverbs 17]

[Wisdom’s Virtues]

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet

is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing

but quarrels and strife at home.

A wise, intelligent servant will be honored above a shameful son.

He’ll even end up having a portion left to him in his master’s will.

In the same way that gold and silver are refined by fire,

the Lord purifies your heart by the tests and trials of life.

Those eager to embrace evil listen to slander,

for a liar loves to listen to lies.

Mock the poor, will you?

You insult your Creator every time you do!

If you make fun of others’ misfortune,

you’d better watch out—your punishment is on its way.

Grandparents have the crowning glory of life:

grandchildren!

And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents.

It is not proper for a leader to lie and deceive,

and don’t expect excellent words to be spoken by a fool.

Wise instruction is like a costly gem.

It turns the impossible into success.

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships.

One word of correction breaks open a teachable heart,

but a fool can be corrected a hundred times

and still not know what hit him.

Rebellion thrives in an evil man,

so a messenger of vengeance will be sent to punish him.

It’s safer to meet a grizzly bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a reckless fool.

The one who returns evil for good

can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life.

Don’t be one who is quick to quarrel,

for an argument is hard to stop,

and you never know how it will end,

so don’t even start down that road!

There is nothing God hates more

than condemning the one who is innocent

and acquitting the one who is guilty.

Why pay tuition to educate a fool?

For he has no intention of acquiring true wisdom.

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble.

It’s stupid to run up bills you’ll never be able to pay

or to cosign for the loan of your friend.

Save yourself the trouble and don’t do either one.

If you love to argue,

then you must be in love with sin.

For the one who loves to boast is only asking for trouble.

The one with a perverse heart never has anything good to say,

and the chronic liar tumbles into constant trouble.

Parents of a numbskull will have many sorrows,

for there’s nothing about his lifestyle that will make them proud.

A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul.

But the one whose heart is crushed

struggles with sickness and depression.

When you take a secret bribe,

your actions reveal your true character,

for you pervert the ways of justice.

Even the face of a wise man shows his intelligence.

But the wandering eyes of a fool will look for wisdom everywhere

except right in front of his nose.

A father grieves over the foolishness of his child,

and bitter sorrow fills his mother.

It’s horrible to persecute a holy lover of God

or to strike an honorable man for his integrity!

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That’s how you show that you are wise.

An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you’re facing.

When even a fool bites his tongue

he’s considered wise.

So shut your mouth when you are provoked—

it will make you look smart.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 17 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 17]

A prayer of David.

Listen, O Eternal One, to my cry for justice.

These words of mine are true—turn Your ear toward me.

Announce that I am free of all the charges against me—only You can see into my heart to know that to be true.

Treat me with fairness; look at me with justice.

You have searched me—my heart and soul—awakened me from dreaming and tested me.

You’ve found nothing against me.

I have resolved not to sin in what I say.

The path violent men have followed,

I will not travel. Violence is not my way.

Your ways and Your voice now guide my journey.

I will press on—moving steadfastly forward along Your path.

I will not look back. I will not stumble.

I am crying aloud to You, O True God, for I long to know Your answer.

Hear me, O God. Hear my plea. Hear my prayer for help.

Put Your marvelous love on display for all to see.

Liberator of those who long for shelter beside You,

set them safely away from their enemies, ever welcomed by grace.

Keep close watch over me as the apple of Your eye;

shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.

Protect me from the wicked who are poised to attack,

from the enemies swarming around me and closing in quickly.

Like clay baking in the sun, their hearts have hardened;

arrogance spills from their mouths.

They’ve tracked me down like quarry.

They’re surrounding me

and are poised to throw me down into the dirt.

Like a lion—crouching in the brush—they are ready to tear me apart.

Like young lions in their hiding places, they are poised to strike.

Rise up and confront them, O Eternal One! Make them pay.

By Your sword, set me free from my wicked enemies!

May Your rescue find me here.

By Your hand, save me from my enemies, Eternal One.

Save me from men whose hopes are rooted in this world.

But as for those You cherish,

may they feast on all You have set aside for them;

may their children never be in need;

may they have enough so their children will inherit their wealth.

But as for me, my hope is to see Your face.

When I am vindicated, I will look upon the holy face of God,

and when I awake, the longing of my soul will be satisfied in the glow of Your presence.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17 (The Voice)

[Psalm 28]

Don’t turn a deaf ear

when I call you, God.

If all I get from you is

deafening silence,

I’d be better off

in the Black Hole.

I’m letting you know what I need,

calling out for help

And lifting my arms

toward your inner sanctuary.

Don’t shove me into

the same jail cell with those crooks,

With those who are

full-time employees of evil.

They talk a good line of “peace,”

then moonlight for the Devil.

Pay them back for what they’ve done,

for how bad they’ve been.

Pay them back for their long hours

in the Devil’s workshop;

Then cap it with a huge bonus.

Because they have no idea how God works

or what he is up to,

God will smash them to smithereens

and walk away from the ruins.

Blessed be God—

he heard me praying.

He proved he’s on my side;

I’ve thrown my lot in with him.

Now I’m jumping for joy,

and shouting and singing my thanks to him.

God is all strength for his people,

ample refuge for his chosen leader;

Save your people

and bless your heritage.

Care for them;

carry them like a good shepherd.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 28 (The Message)

[Psalm 48]

Beautiful Zion

A poetic song by the prophetic singers of Korah’s clan

There are so many reasons to describe God as wonderful!

So many reasons to praise him with unlimited praise!

Zion-City is his home; he lives on his holy mountain—

high and glorious, joy-filled and favored.

Zion-Mountain looms in the farthest reaches of the north,

the city of our incomparable King!

This is his divine abode, an impenetrable citadel,

for he is known to dwell in the highest place.

See how the mighty kings united to come against Zion,

yet when they saw God manifest in front of their eyes,

they were stunned.

Trembling, they all fled away, gripped with fear.

Seized with panic, they doubled up in frightful anguish,

like a woman in the labor pains of childbirth.

Like a hurricane blowing and breaking the invading ships,

God blows upon them and breaks them to pieces.

We have heard about these wonders,

and then we saw them with our own eyes.

For this is the city of the Commander of Angel Armies,

the city of our God, safe and secure forever!

Pause in his presence

Lord, as we worship you in your temple,

we recall over and over your kindness to us

and your unending love.

The fame of your name echoes throughout the entire world,

accompanied with praises.

Your right hand is full of victory.

So let the people of Zion rejoice with gladness;

let the daughters of praise leap for joy!

For God will see to it that you are judged fairly.

Circle Zion; count her towers.

Consider her walls, climb her palaces,

and then go and tell the coming generation

of the care and compassion of our God.

Yes, this is our God, our great God forever.

He will lead us onward until the end,

through all time, beyond death,

and into eternity!

The Book of Psalms, Poem 48 (The Passion Translation)

[dfroza]

Today’s reading from the ancient book of Proverbs and book of Psalms

for june 17 of 2021 with Proverbs 17 and Psalm 17, accompanied by Psalm 90 for the 90th day of Spring and Psalm 18 for day 168 of the year (now with the consummate book of 150 Psalms in its 2nd revolution this year)

[Proverbs 17]

[Wisdom’s Virtues]

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet

is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing

but quarrels and strife at home.

A wise, intelligent servant will be honored above a shameful son.

He’ll even end up having a portion left to him in his master’s will.

In the same way that gold and silver are refined by fire,

the Lord purifies your heart by the tests and trials of life.

Those eager to embrace evil listen to slander,

for a liar loves to listen to lies.

Mock the poor, will you?

You insult your Creator every time you do!

If you make fun of others’ misfortune,

you’d better watch out—your punishment is on its way.

Grandparents have the crowning glory of life:

grandchildren!

And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents.

It is not proper for a leader to lie and deceive,

and don’t expect excellent words to be spoken by a fool.

Wise instruction is like a costly gem.

It turns the impossible into success.

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships.

One word of correction breaks open a teachable heart,

but a fool can be corrected a hundred times

and still not know what hit him.

Rebellion thrives in an evil man,

so a messenger of vengeance will be sent to punish him.

It’s safer to meet a grizzly bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a reckless fool.

The one who returns evil for good

can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life.

Don’t be one who is quick to quarrel,

for an argument is hard to stop,

and you never know how it will end,

so don’t even start down that road!

There is nothing God hates more

than condemning the one who is innocent

and acquitting the one who is guilty.

Why pay tuition to educate a fool?

For he has no intention of acquiring true wisdom.

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble.

It’s stupid to run up bills you’ll never be able to pay

or to cosign for the loan of your friend.

Save yourself the trouble and don’t do either one.

If you love to argue,

then you must be in love with sin.

For the one who loves to boast is only asking for trouble.

The one with a perverse heart never has anything good to say,

and the chronic liar tumbles into constant trouble.

Parents of a numbskull will have many sorrows,

for there’s nothing about his lifestyle that will make them proud.

A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul.

But the one whose heart is crushed

struggles with sickness and depression.

When you take a secret bribe,

your actions reveal your true character,

for you pervert the ways of justice.

Even the face of a wise man shows his intelligence.

But the wandering eyes of a fool will look for wisdom everywhere

except right in front of his nose.

A father grieves over the foolishness of his child,

and bitter sorrow fills his mother.

It’s horrible to persecute a holy lover of God

or to strike an honorable man for his integrity!

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That’s how you show that you are wise.

An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you’re facing.

When even a fool bites his tongue

he’s considered wise.

So shut your mouth when you are provoked—

it will make you look smart.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 17 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 17]

Listen while I build my case, God,

the most honest prayer you’ll ever hear.

Show the world I’m innocent—

in your heart you know I am.

Go ahead, examine me from inside out,

surprise me in the middle of the night—

You’ll find I’m just what I say I am.

My words don’t run loose.

I’m not trying to get my way

in the world’s way.

I’m trying to get your way,

your Word’s way.

I’m staying on your trail;

I’m putting one foot

In front of the other.

I’m not giving up.

I call to you, God, because I’m sure of an answer.

So—answer! bend your ear! listen sharp!

Paint grace-graffiti on the fences;

take in your frightened children who

Are running from the neighborhood bullies

straight to you.

Keep your eye on me;

hide me under your cool wing feathers

From the wicked who are out to get me,

from mortal enemies closing in.

Their hearts are hard as nails,

their mouths blast hot air.

They are after me, nipping my heels,

determined to bring me down,

Lions ready to rip me apart,

young lions poised to pounce.

Up, God: beard them! break them!

By your sword, free me from their clutches;

Barehanded, God, break these mortals,

these flat-earth people who can’t think beyond today.

I’d like to see their bellies

swollen with famine food,

The weeds they’ve sown

harvested and baked into famine bread,

With second helpings for their children

and crusts for their babies to chew on.

And me? I plan on looking

you full in the face. When I get up,

I’ll see your full stature

and live heaven on earth.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17 (The Message)

[Book Four]

[Psalm 90]

A prayer of Moses, a man of God.

Lord, You have always been our refuge.

Our ancestors made You their home long ago.

Before mountains were born,

before You fashioned the earth and filled it with life,

from ages past to distant futures,

You are truly God.

You turn people back to dust,

saying, “Go back to the dust, children of Adam.”

For You a thousand years is like a day when it is over,

a watch during the night;

there is no difference to You.

You release the waters of death to sweep mankind away in his slumber.

In the morning, we are blades of grass,

Growing rapidly under the sun but withering quickly;

yet in the evening, we fade and die, soon to be cut down.

For Your anger has consumed us.

Your wrath has shaken us to the core

and left us deeply troubled.

You have written our offenses before You—

the light of Your presence shines brightly on our secret sins,

and we can’t run or hide.

For all our days are spent beneath Your wrath;

our youth gives way to old age, and then

one day our years come to an end with a sigh.

We may journey through life for 70 years;

some may live and breathe 80 years—if we are strong.

Yet our time here is only toil and trouble;

soon our days are gone, and we fly away.

Who can truly comprehend the power unleashed by Your anger?

Your wrath matches the fear that is due to You.

Teach us to number our days

so that we may truly live and achieve wisdom.

How long will we wait here alone?

Return, O Eternal One, with mercy.

Rescue Your servants with compassion.

With every sun’s rising, surprise us with Your love,

satisfy us with Your kindness.

Then we will sing with joy and celebrate every day we are alive.

You have spent many days afflicting us with pain and sorrow;

now match those with years of unspent joy.

Let Your work of love be on display for all Your servants;

let Your children see Your majesty.

And then let the beauty and grace of the Lord—our God—rest upon us

and bring success to all we do;

yes, bring success to all we do!

The Book of Psalms, Poem 90 (The Voice)

[dfroza]

Today’s reading from the ancient books of Proverbs and Psalms

for Wednesday, march 17 of 2021 with Proverbs 17 and Psalm 17, accompanied by Psalm 87 for the 87th day of Winter and Psalm 76 for day 76 of the year

[Psalm 17]

A prayer of David.

Listen, O Eternal One, to my cry for justice.

These words of mine are true—turn Your ear toward me.

Announce that I am free of all the charges against me—only You can see into my heart to know that to be true.

Treat me with fairness; look at me with justice.

You have searched me—my heart and soul—awakened me from dreaming and tested me.

You’ve found nothing against me.

I have resolved not to sin in what I say.

The path violent men have followed,

I will not travel. Violence is not my way.

Your ways and Your voice now guide my journey.

I will press on—moving steadfastly forward along Your path.

I will not look back. I will not stumble.

I am crying aloud to You, O True God, for I long to know Your answer.

Hear me, O God. Hear my plea. Hear my prayer for help.

Put Your marvelous love on display for all to see.

Liberator of those who long for shelter beside You,

set them safely away from their enemies, ever welcomed by grace.

Keep close watch over me as the apple of Your eye;

shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.

Protect me from the wicked who are poised to attack,

from the enemies swarming around me and closing in quickly.

Like clay baking in the sun, their hearts have hardened;

arrogance spills from their mouths.

They’ve tracked me down like quarry.

They’re surrounding me

and are poised to throw me down into the dirt.

Like a lion—crouching in the brush—they are ready to tear me apart.

Like young lions in their hiding places, they are poised to strike.

Rise up and confront them, O Eternal One! Make them pay.

By Your sword, set me free from my wicked enemies!

May Your rescue find me here.

By Your hand, save me from my enemies, Eternal One.

Save me from men whose hopes are rooted in this world.

But as for those You cherish,

may they feast on all You have set aside for them;

may their children never be in need;

may they have enough so their children will inherit their wealth.

But as for me, my hope is to see Your face.

When I am vindicated, I will look upon the holy face of God,

and when I awake, the longing of my soul will be satisfied in the glow of Your presence.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17 (The Voice)

[Psalm 87]

He founded Zion on the Holy Mountain—

and oh, how God loves his home!

Loves it far better than all

the homes of Jacob put together!

God’s hometown—oh!

everyone there is talking about you!

I name them off, those among whom I’m famous:

Egypt and Babylon,

also Philistia,

even Tyre, along with Cush.

Word’s getting around; they point them out:

“This one was born again here!”

The word’s getting out on Zion:

“Men and women, right and left,

get born again in her!”

God registers their names in his book:

“This one, this one, and this one—

born again, right here.”

Singers and dancers give credit to Zion:

“All my springs are in you!”

The Book of Psalms, Poem 87 (The Message)

[Psalm 76]

For the worship leader. A song of Asaph accompanied by strings.

The One known in Judah is the True God;

in Israel, His name is great.

He has made Salem His home;

indeed, He rests in Zion.

There He destroyed the instruments of war:

flaming arrows, shields, and swords.

[pause]

You rise and shine like the dawn.

You are more majestic than the mountains where game runs wild.

The strong-hearted enemies were plundered;

they were buried in slumber.

Even the noble warriors

could not raise a hand to stop You.

O True God of Jacob, with just Your rebuke

both horse and rider fell into a deep sleep.

You are feared; yes, You.

And who can stand before You when Your anger flares?

You decreed judgment from the heavens.

The earth heard it and was petrified with fear, completely still,

When the True God arose for judgment

to deliver all the meek of the earth.

[pause]

For the wrath of man will end in praise of You,

and whatever wrath is left You will wrap around Yourself like a belt.

Make vows to the Eternal your God,

and do all you promised;

Let all the nations around you bring gifts

to the God who arouses fear and awe.

He squashes the arrogant spirit of the rulers

and inspires fear in the hearts of the kings of the earth.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 76 (The Voice)

[Proverbs 17]

[Wisdom’s Virtues]

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet

is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing

but quarrels and strife at home.

A wise, intelligent servant will be honored above a shameful son.

He’ll even end up having a portion left to him in his master’s will.

In the same way that gold and silver are refined by fire,

the Lord purifies your heart by the tests and trials of life.

Those eager to embrace evil listen to slander,

for a liar loves to listen to lies.

Mock the poor, will you?

You insult your Creator every time you do!

If you make fun of others’ misfortune,

you’d better watch out—your punishment is on its way.

Grandparents have the crowning glory of life:

grandchildren!

And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents.

It is not proper for a leader to lie and deceive,

and don’t expect excellent words to be spoken by a fool.

Wise instruction is like a costly gem.

It turns the impossible into success.

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships.

One word of correction breaks open a teachable heart,

but a fool can be corrected a hundred times

and still not know what hit him.

Rebellion thrives in an evil man,

so a messenger of vengeance will be sent to punish him.

It’s safer to meet a grizzly bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a reckless fool.

The one who returns evil for good

can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life.

Don’t be one who is quick to quarrel,

for an argument is hard to stop,

and you never know how it will end,

so don’t even start down that road!

There is nothing God hates more

than condemning the one who is innocent

and acquitting the one who is guilty.

Why pay tuition to educate a fool?

For he has no intention of acquiring true wisdom.

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble.

It’s stupid to run up bills you’ll never be able to pay

or to cosign for the loan of your friend.

Save yourself the trouble and don’t do either one.

If you love to argue,

then you must be in love with sin.

For the one who loves to boast is only asking for trouble.

The one with a perverse heart never has anything good to say,

and the chronic liar tumbles into constant trouble.

Parents of a numbskull will have many sorrows,

for there’s nothing about his lifestyle that will make them proud.

A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul.

But the one whose heart is crushed

struggles with sickness and depression.

When you take a secret bribe,

your actions reveal your true character,

for you pervert the ways of justice.

Even the face of a wise man shows his intelligence.

But the wandering eyes of a fool will look for wisdom everywhere

except right in front of his nose.

A father grieves over the foolishness of his child,

and bitter sorrow fills his mother.

It’s horrible to persecute a holy lover of God

or to strike an honorable man for his integrity!

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That’s how you show that you are wise.

An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you’re facing.

When even a fool bites his tongue

he’s considered wise.

So shut your mouth when you are provoked—

it will make you look smart.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 17 (The Passion Translation)

[dfroza]

Today’s reading from the ancient book of Proverbs and book of Psalms

for may 17 of 2021 with Proverbs 17 and Psalm 17, accompanied by Psalm 59 for the 59th day of Spring and Psalm 137 for day 137 of the year

[Proverbs 17]

[Wisdom’s Virtues]

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet

is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing

but quarrels and strife at home.

A wise, intelligent servant will be honored above a shameful son.

He’ll even end up having a portion left to him in his master’s will.

In the same way that gold and silver are refined by fire,

the Lord purifies your heart by the tests and trials of life.

Those eager to embrace evil listen to slander,

for a liar loves to listen to lies.

Mock the poor, will you?

You insult your Creator every time you do!

If you make fun of others’ misfortune,

you’d better watch out—your punishment is on its way.

Grandparents have the crowning glory of life:

grandchildren!

And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents.

It is not proper for a leader to lie and deceive,

and don’t expect excellent words to be spoken by a fool.

Wise instruction is like a costly gem.

It turns the impossible into success.

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships.

One word of correction breaks open a teachable heart,

but a fool can be corrected a hundred times

and still not know what hit him.

Rebellion thrives in an evil man,

so a messenger of vengeance will be sent to punish him.

It’s safer to meet a grizzly bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a reckless fool.

The one who returns evil for good

can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life.

Don’t be one who is quick to quarrel,

for an argument is hard to stop,

and you never know how it will end,

so don’t even start down that road!

There is nothing God hates more

than condemning the one who is innocent

and acquitting the one who is guilty.

Why pay tuition to educate a fool?

For he has no intention of acquiring true wisdom.

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble.

It’s stupid to run up bills you’ll never be able to pay

or to cosign for the loan of your friend.

Save yourself the trouble and don’t do either one.

If you love to argue,

then you must be in love with sin.

For the one who loves to boast is only asking for trouble.

The one with a perverse heart never has anything good to say,

and the chronic liar tumbles into constant trouble.

Parents of a numbskull will have many sorrows,

for there’s nothing about his lifestyle that will make them proud.

A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul.

But the one whose heart is crushed

struggles with sickness and depression.

When you take a secret bribe,

your actions reveal your true character,

for you pervert the ways of justice.

Even the face of a wise man shows his intelligence.

But the wandering eyes of a fool will look for wisdom everywhere

except right in front of his nose.

A father grieves over the foolishness of his child,

and bitter sorrow fills his mother.

It’s horrible to persecute a holy lover of God

or to strike an honorable man for his integrity!

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That’s how you show that you are wise.

An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you’re facing.

When even a fool bites his tongue

he’s considered wise.

So shut your mouth when you are provoked—

it will make you look smart.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 17 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 17]

A prayer of David.

Listen, O Eternal One, to my cry for justice.

These words of mine are true—turn Your ear toward me.

Announce that I am free of all the charges against me—only You can see into my heart to know that to be true.

Treat me with fairness; look at me with justice.

You have searched me—my heart and soul—awakened me from dreaming and tested me.

You’ve found nothing against me.

I have resolved not to sin in what I say.

The path violent men have followed,

I will not travel. Violence is not my way.

Your ways and Your voice now guide my journey.

I will press on—moving steadfastly forward along Your path.

I will not look back. I will not stumble.

I am crying aloud to You, O True God, for I long to know Your answer.

Hear me, O God. Hear my plea. Hear my prayer for help.

Put Your marvelous love on display for all to see.

Liberator of those who long for shelter beside You,

set them safely away from their enemies, ever welcomed by grace.

Keep close watch over me as the apple of Your eye;

shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.

Protect me from the wicked who are poised to attack,

from the enemies swarming around me and closing in quickly.

Like clay baking in the sun, their hearts have hardened;

arrogance spills from their mouths.

They’ve tracked me down like quarry.

They’re surrounding me

and are poised to throw me down into the dirt.

Like a lion—crouching in the brush—they are ready to tear me apart.

Like young lions in their hiding places, they are poised to strike.

Rise up and confront them, O Eternal One! Make them pay.

By Your sword, set me free from my wicked enemies!

May Your rescue find me here.

By Your hand, save me from my enemies, Eternal One.

Save me from men whose hopes are rooted in this world.

But as for those You cherish,

may they feast on all You have set aside for them;

may their children never be in need;

may they have enough so their children will inherit their wealth.

But as for me, my hope is to see Your face.

When I am vindicated, I will look upon the holy face of God,

and when I awake, the longing of my soul will be satisfied in the glow of Your presence.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17 (The Voice)

to be accompanied by these lines:

Listen while I build my case, God,

the most honest prayer you’ll ever hear.

Show the world I’m innocent—

in your heart you know I am.

Go ahead, examine me from inside out,

surprise me in the middle of the night—

You’ll find I’m just what I say I am.

My words don’t run loose.

I’m not trying to get my way

in the world’s way.

I’m trying to get your way,

your Word’s way.

I’m staying on your trail;

I’m putting one foot

In front of the other.

I’m not giving up.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17:1-5 (The Message)

[Psalm 59]

Protect Me

For the Pure and Shining One

King David’s song of instruction composed when Saul set an ambush for him at his home

To the tune of “Do Not Destroy”

My God, protect me!

Keep me safe from all my enemies, for they’re coming to kill me.

Put me in a high place out of their reach—

a place so high that these assassins will never find me.

Save me from these murdering men, these bloodthirsty killers.

See how they set an ambush for my life.

They’re fierce men ready to launch their attack against me.

O Lord, I’m innocent; protect me!

I’ve done nothing to deserve this,

yet they are already plotting together to kill me.

Arise, Lord, see what they’re scheming, and come and meet with me.

Awaken, O God of Israel!

Commander of Angel Armies,

arise to punish these treacherous people who oppose you!

Don’t go soft on these hard-core killers!

Pause in his presence

After dark they came to spy, sneaking around the city,

snarling, prowling like a pack of stray dogs in the night—

boiling over with rage, shouting out their curses,

convinced that they’ll never get caught.

But you, Lord, break out laughing at their plans,

amused by their arrogance, scoffing at their sinful ways.

My strength is found when I wait upon you.

Watch over me, God, for you are my mountain fortress;

you set me on high!

The God of passionate love will meet with me.

My God will empower me to rise in triumph over my foes.

Don’t kill them; stagger them all with a vivid display of power

and scatter them with your armies of angels,

O mighty God, our protector!

Use your awesome power to make them wanderers and vagabonds

and then bring them down.

They are nothing but proud, cursing liars.

They sin in every word they speak, boasting in their blasphemies!

May your wrath be kindled to destroy them; finish them off!

Make an end of them and their deeds until they are no more!

Let them all know and learn

that God is the ruler over Jacob,

the God-King over all the earth!

Pause in his presence

Here they come again—

prowling, growling like a pack of stray dogs in the city.

Drifting, devouring, and coming in for the kill,

they refuse to sleep until they’ve eaten their fill.

But as for me, your strength shall be my song of joy.

At each and every sunrise, my lyrics of your love will fill the air!

For you have been my glory-fortress,

a stronghold in my day of distress.

O my strength, I sing with joy your praises.

O my stronghold, I sing with joy your song!

O my Savior, I sing with joy the lyrics of your faithful love for me!

The Book of Psalms, Poem 59 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 137]

By the rivers of Babylon,

we sat and wept

when we thought of Zion, our home, so far away.

On the branches of the willow trees,

we hung our harps and hid our hearts from the enemy.

And the men that surrounded us

made demands that we clap our hands and sing—

Songs of joy from days gone by,

songs from Zion, our home.

Such cruel men taunted us—haunted our memories.

How could we sing a song about the Eternal

in a land so foreign, while still tormented, brokenhearted, homesick?

Please don’t make us sing this song.

O Jerusalem, even still, don’t escape my memory.

I treasure you and your songs, even as I hide my harp from the enemy.

And if I can’t remember,

may I never sing a song again—

may my hands never play well again—

For what use would it be if I don’t remember Jerusalem

as my source of joy?

Remember, Eternal One, how the Edomites, our brothers, the descendants of Esau,

stood by and watched as Jerusalem fell.

Gloating, they said, “Destroy it;

tear it down to the ground,” when Jerusalem was being demolished.

O daughter of Babylon, you are destined for destruction!

Happy are those who pay you back for how you treated us

so you will no longer walk so proud.

Happy are those who dash your children against the rocks

so you will know how it feels.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 137 (The Voice)

[dfroza]

Today’s reading from the ancient books of Proverbs and Psalms

for Saturday, April 17 of 2021 with Proverbs 17 and Psalm 17, accompanied by Psalm 29 for the 29th day of Spring and Psalm 107 for day 107 of the year

[Proverbs 17]

[Wisdom’s Virtues]

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet

is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing

but quarrels and strife at home.

A wise, intelligent servant will be honored above a shameful son.

He’ll even end up having a portion left to him in his master’s will.

In the same way that gold and silver are refined by fire,

the Lord purifies your heart by the tests and trials of life.

Those eager to embrace evil listen to slander,

for a liar loves to listen to lies.

Mock the poor, will you?

You insult your Creator every time you do!

If you make fun of others’ misfortune,

you’d better watch out—your punishment is on its way.

Grandparents have the crowning glory of life:

grandchildren!

And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents.

It is not proper for a leader to lie and deceive,

and don’t expect excellent words to be spoken by a fool.

Wise instruction is like a costly gem.

It turns the impossible into success.

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships.

One word of correction breaks open a teachable heart,

but a fool can be corrected a hundred times

and still not know what hit him.

Rebellion thrives in an evil man,

so a messenger of vengeance will be sent to punish him.

It’s safer to meet a grizzly bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a reckless fool.

The one who returns evil for good

can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life.

Don’t be one who is quick to quarrel,

for an argument is hard to stop,

and you never know how it will end,

so don’t even start down that road!

There is nothing God hates more

than condemning the one who is innocent

and acquitting the one who is guilty.

Why pay tuition to educate a fool?

For he has no intention of acquiring true wisdom.

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble.

It’s stupid to run up bills you’ll never be able to pay

or to cosign for the loan of your friend.

Save yourself the trouble and don’t do either one.

If you love to argue,

then you must be in love with sin.

For the one who loves to boast is only asking for trouble.

The one with a perverse heart never has anything good to say,

and the chronic liar tumbles into constant trouble.

Parents of a numbskull will have many sorrows,

for there’s nothing about his lifestyle that will make them proud.

A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul.

But the one whose heart is crushed

struggles with sickness and depression.

When you take a secret bribe,

your actions reveal your true character,

for you pervert the ways of justice.

Even the face of a wise man shows his intelligence.

But the wandering eyes of a fool will look for wisdom everywhere

except right in front of his nose.

A father grieves over the foolishness of his child,

and bitter sorrow fills his mother.

It’s horrible to persecute a holy lover of God

or to strike an honorable man for his integrity!

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That’s how you show that you are wise.

An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you’re facing.

When even a fool bites his tongue

he’s considered wise.

So shut your mouth when you are provoked—

it will make you look smart.

The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 17 (The Passion Translation)

[Psalm 17]

A prayer of David.

Listen, O Eternal One, to my cry for justice.

These words of mine are true—turn Your ear toward me.

Announce that I am free of all the charges against me—only You can see into my heart to know that to be true.

Treat me with fairness; look at me with justice.

You have searched me—my heart and soul—awakened me from dreaming and tested me.

You’ve found nothing against me.

I have resolved not to sin in what I say.

The path violent men have followed,

I will not travel. Violence is not my way.

Your ways and Your voice now guide my journey.

I will press on—moving steadfastly forward along Your path.

I will not look back. I will not stumble.

I am crying aloud to You, O True God, for I long to know Your answer.

Hear me, O God. Hear my plea. Hear my prayer for help.

Put Your marvelous love on display for all to see.

Liberator of those who long for shelter beside You,

set them safely away from their enemies, ever welcomed by grace.

Keep close watch over me as the apple of Your eye;

shelter me in the shadow of Your wings.

Protect me from the wicked who are poised to attack,

from the enemies swarming around me and closing in quickly.

Like clay baking in the sun, their hearts have hardened;

arrogance spills from their mouths.

They’ve tracked me down like quarry.

They’re surrounding me

and are poised to throw me down into the dirt.

Like a lion—crouching in the brush—they are ready to tear me apart.

Like young lions in their hiding places, they are poised to strike.

Rise up and confront them, O Eternal One! Make them pay.

By Your sword, set me free from my wicked enemies!

May Your rescue find me here.

By Your hand, save me from my enemies, Eternal One.

Save me from men whose hopes are rooted in this world.

But as for those You cherish,

may they feast on all You have set aside for them;

may their children never be in need;

may they have enough so their children will inherit their wealth.

But as for me, my hope is to see Your face.

When I am vindicated, I will look upon the holy face of God,

and when I awake, the longing of my soul will be satisfied in the glow of Your presence.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 17 (The Voice)

[Psalm 29]

A song of David.

Give all credit to the Eternal, O heavenly creatures;

give praise to Him for His glory and power.

Give to the Eternal the glory due His name;

worship Him with lavish displays of sacred splendor.

The voice of the Eternal echoes over the great waters;

God’s magnificence roars like thunder.

The Eternal’s presence hovers over all the waters.

His voice explodes in great power over the earth.

His voice is both regal and grand.

The Eternal’s voice shatters the cedars;

His power splinters the great cedars of Lebanon.

He speaks, and Lebanon leaps like a young calf;

Sirion jumps like a wild, youthful ox.

The voice of the Eternal cuts through with flames of fire.

The voice of the Eternal rumbles through the wilderness

with great quakes;

He causes Kadesh to tremble.

The Eternal’s voice brings life from the doe’s womb;

His voice strips the forest bare,

and all the people in the temple declare, “Glory!”

The Eternal is enthroned over the great flood;

His reign is unending.

We ask You, Eternal One, to give strength to Your people;

Eternal One, bless them with the gift of peace.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 29 (The Voice)

[Book Five]

[Psalm 107]

Erupt with thanks to the Eternal, for He is good

and His loyal love lasts forever.

Let all those redeemed by the Eternal—

those rescued from times of deep trouble—join in giving thanks.

He has gathered them across the earth,

from east and west,

from [north and south].

Some drifted around in the desert

and found no place where they could live.

Their bellies growled with hunger; their mouths were dry with thirst;

their souls grew weak and weary.

In their distress, they called out to the Eternal,

and He saved them from their misery.

He showed them the best path; then He led them down the right road

until they arrived at an inhabited town.

May they erupt with praise and give thanks to the Eternal

in honor of His loyal love

And all the wonders He has performed for humankind!

He has quenched their thirst,

and He has satisfied their hunger with what is good.

Some people were locked up in dark prisons, confined in gloom as bleak as death.

They were captives bound by iron chains and misery,

All because they had rebelled against the directives of the True God

and had rejected the wisdom of the Most High.

So they suffered the heaviness of slave labor;

when they stumbled and fell, there was no one to help them up.

In their distress, they called out to the Eternal;

He saved them from their misery.

He rescued them from the darkness, delivered them from the deepest gloom of death;

He shattered their iron chains.

May they erupt with praise and give thanks to the Eternal

in honor of His loyal love

And all the wonders He has performed for humankind!

He has broken down the bronze gates

and severed the iron bars that imprisoned them.

Some people became fools infected by their rebellious ways,

and sickness followed because of their sins.

Afflicted and weak, they refused any sort of food

as they approached the gates of death.

In their distress, they called out to the Eternal,

and He saved them from their misery.

He gave the order and healed them

and rescued them from certain death.

May they erupt with praise and give thanks to the Eternal

in honor of His loyal love

And all the wonders He has performed for humankind!

Let them present to Him thanksgiving sacrifices

and tell stories of His great deeds through songs of joy.

Some set out to sea in ships,

traveling across mighty seas in order to trade in foreign lands.

They witnessed the powerful acts of the Eternal,

marveled at the great wonders He revealed over the deep waters.

For He spoke and summoned a violent wind

that whipped up the waves of the sea.

Relentless waves lifted the ships high in the sky, then drove them down to the depths;

the sailors’ courage dissolved into misery.

They staggered and stumbled around like drunkards,

and they had no idea what to do.

In their distress, they called out to the Eternal,

and He saved them from their misery.

He commanded the storm to calm down, and it became still.

A hush came over the waves of the sea,

The sailors were delighted at the quiet,

and He guided them to their port.

May they erupt with praise and give thanks to the Eternal

in honor of His loyal love

And all the wonders He has performed for humankind!

Let them glorify Him in the assembly of His people

and worship Him in the presence of the elders.

God transforms wild, flowing rivers into dry, lonely deserts,

lively springs of water into thirsty ground.

He turns lush gardens into lifeless wastelands,

all because of the wickedness of those who reside there.

Yet He transforms a dry, lonely desert into pools of living water,

parched ground into lively springs.

And He allows those who are hungry to live there

so that they might build a livable city.

There they sow fields and plant vineyards

and gather up an abundant harvest.

He anoints them with His blessings, and they greatly increase in number.

He does not allow their herds to dwindle.

When His people lessen in number and are humbled

through persecution, suffering, and brokenheartedness,

He pours out contempt on those responsible leaders

and then makes them drift around in an uncharted wasteland.

But He raises the poor away from their suffering

and multiplies their families like a flock.

The righteous see God’s actions, and they take delight in what He does,

but the unrighteous don’t dare to speak.

Is there anyone wise? If so, may the wise take notice of these things

and reflect upon the loyal love of the Eternal.

The Book of Psalms, Poem 107 (The Voice)