Psalm 34:1-22 (MsgB)

A David psalm, when he outwitted Abimelech and got away.

I bless God every chance I get;
my lungs expand with his praise.
[2] I live and breathe God;
if things aren't going well, hear this and be happy:
[3] Join me in spreading the news;
together let's get the word out.
[4] God met me more than halfway,
he freed me from my anxious fears.
[5] Look at him; give him your warmest smile.
Never hide your feelings from him.
[6] When I was desperate, I called out,
and God got me out of a tight spot.
[7] God's angel sets up a circle
of protection around us while we pray.
[8] Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see—
how good God is.
Blessed are you who run to him.
[9] Worship God if you want the best;
worship opens doors to all his goodness.
[10] Young lions on the prowl get hungry,
but God-seekers are full of God.
[11] Come, children, listen closely;
I'll give you a lesson in God worship.
[12] Who out there has a lust for life?
Can't wait each day to come upon beauty?
[13] Guard your tongue from profanity,
and no more lying through your teeth.
[14] Turn your back on sin; do something good.
Embrace peace—don't let it get away!
[15] God keeps an eye on his friends,
his ears pick up every moan and groan.
[16] God won't put up with rebels;
he'll cull them from the pack.
[17] Is anyone crying for help? God is listening,
ready to rescue you.
[18] If your heart is broken, you'll find God right there;
if you're kicked in the gut, he'll help you catch your breath.
[19] Disciples so often get into trouble;
still, God is there every time.
[20] He's your bodyguard, shielding every bone;
not even a finger gets broken.
[21] The wicked commit slow suicide;
they waste their lives hating the good.
[22] God pays for each slave's freedom;
no one who runs to him loses out.