Psalms 14

1 For the music director. A psalm of David. Only fools tell themselves, “God doesn't exist.” They are completely immoral; they commit terrible sins; not a single one of them does anything good.

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.

2 The Lord watches from heaven to see whether anyone understands—if there's anyone who wants to come to God.

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

3 They have all gone their own way, they are totally depraved; none of them does anything good, not even one.

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

4 Won't these people who do evil ever learn? They consume my people as if they were eating bread, and refuse to pray to the Lord.

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

5 Look, they will become terrified, because God is with those who live right.

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

6 The wicked dismiss the plans of the poor people, but the Lord looks after them.

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

7 If only the Lord's salvation would come from Zion! When the Lord restores his people, the people of Jacob will celebrate, and the people of Israel will be glad.

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