Psalm 143:2

I Stretch Out My Hands to You · Psalm 143:1–12
Read Psalm 143

Translations

Modern
Do not bring Your servant into judgment, for no one alive is righteous before You.
Traditional
And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified.
Literal
And do not enter into judgment with Your servant, for not anyone alive is righteous before Your face.
Latin
Et non intres in judicium cum servo tuo, quia non justificabitur in conspectu tuo omnis vivens.

Original

Hebrew
English
Do not bring Your servant into judgment, for no one alive is righteous before You.

Notes

Everyone has sinned and is guilty before God (Romans 3:20–24).

The psalmist prays for God’s love and mercy.

In this lament, the psalmist feels overwhelmed by constant trouble from his enemies, so he turns to the Lord’s love, righteousness, and faithfulness. He remembers what God has done in the past and longs for God to renew his love. He opens himself to God’s wisdom because he knows that God’s instruction leads to life.

In this final group of psalms of David, psalms of praise and wisdom (Psalms 138–139, 145) form a frame around five psalms of lament (Psalms 140–144).

Theme notes and profiles

David Sin Enters the World

Glossary

Justification, Justified Mercy Music Psalms, Book of

Topics

Afflictions and Adversities: Prayer In Depravity of Man: General Scriptures Concerning God: Judge, and his Justice Justification Before God: Under Law: Man Cannot Attain To Man: Cannot be Just with God The Judgment: None, by Nature Can Stand In