13. I concluded, “Surely in vain I have kept my motives pureand maintained a pure lifestyle.
14. I suffer all day long,and am punished every morning.”
15. If I had publicized these thoughts,I would have betrayed your loyal followers.
16. When I tried to make sense of this,it was troubling to me.
17. Then I entered the precincts of God’s temple,and understood the destiny of the wicked.
18. Surely you put them in slippery places;you bring them down to ruin.
19. How desolate they become in a mere moment!Terrifying judgments make their demise complete!
20. They are like a dream after one wakes up.O Lord, when you awake you will despise them.
21. Yes, my spirit was bitter,and my insides felt sharp pain.
22. I was ignorant and lacked insight;I was as senseless as an animal before you.
23. But I am continually with you;you hold my right hand.
24. You guide me by your wise advice,and then you will lead me to a position of honor.
25. Whom do I have in heaven but you?I desire no one but you on earth.
26. My flesh and my heart may grow weak,but God always protects my heart and gives me stability.
27. Yes, look! Those far from you die;you destroy everyone who is unfaithful to you.
28. But as for me, God’s presence is all I need.I have made the sovereign Lord my shelter,as I declare all the things you have done.