1Hallelujah! Praise the LORD, my soul!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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