7. He gathers the waters of the sea together. He puts the oceans in their places.
8. Let the whole earth have respect for the Lord. Let all of the people in the world honor him.
9. He spoke, and the world came into being. He commanded, and it stood firm.
10. The Lord blocks the sinful plans of the nations. He keeps them from doing what they want to do.
11. But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever. What he wants to do will last for all time.
12. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. Blessed are the people he chose to be his own.
13. From heaven the Lord looks down and sees everyone.
14. From his throne he watches all those who live on the earth.
15. He creates the hearts of all people. He is aware of everything they do.
16. A king isn't saved just because his army is big. A soldier doesn't escape just because he is very strong.
17. People can't trust a horse to save them either. Though it is very strong, it can't save them.
18. But the Lord looks with favor on those who respect him. He watches over those who put their hope in his faithful love.
19. He watches over them to save them from death. He wants to keep them alive when there is no food in the land.
20. We wait in hope for the Lord. He helps us. He is like a shield that keeps us safe.