Psalms 14

1 For the choirmaster. Of David. The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt; their acts are vile. There is no one who does good.

For the leader. Of David. Fools say in their heart, “There is no God.” Vile, hateful their life is; not one does good.

2 The LORD looks down from heaven upon the sons of men to see if any understand, if any seek God.

From heaven the Lord looks out on humans, to see if any are wise, and care for God.

3 All have turned away, they have together become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one.

But all have turned bad, the taint is on all; not one does good, no, not one.

4 Will the workers of iniquity never learn? They devour my people like bread; they refuse to call upon the LORD.

Have they learned their lesson, those workers of evil? Who ate up my people, eating, devouring, never calling to the Lord.

5 There they are, overwhelmed with dread, for God is in the company of the righteous.

Sore afraid will they be; for God is among those who are righteous,

6 You sinners frustrate the plans of the oppressed, yet the LORD is their shelter.

you may mock the plans of the poor, but the Lord is their refuge.

7 Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion! When the LORD restores His captive people, let Jacob rejoice, let Israel be glad!

If only help from Zion would come for Israel! When the Lord brings his people a change of fortune, how glad will be Jacob, and Israel how joyful!