How blessed are they who turn their steps
From paths the wicked choose,
Who stand not in the sinners ways,
And scorners' seats refuse.
Who take their solace and delight
In meditation pure--
The law of God--its depth and height,
Its wisdom, might, and power.
They, like the trees on verdant banks
Whereby sweet rivers flow,
Shall bring forth fruit, and fadeless leaves,
And prosperously grow.
But such is not the sinners' end--
Like the light chaff are they,
Which when the softest winds arise,
Are quickly swept away.
They shall not in the judgment stand,
Nor sinners, scorning grace
Be in the congregation found
Where righteous men find place.
The Lord himself the righteous knows--
He marks them from their birth,
But godless ways of sinful men
Shall perish from the earth.