Psalm 101 (Version 1)

Mercy and judgment are my song;

And since they both to thee belong,

My gracious God, my righteous King,

To thee my songs and vows I bring.

If I am rais'd to bear the sword,

I'll take my counsels from thy word;

Thy justice and thy heavenly grace

Shall be the pattern of my ways.

Let wisdom all my actions guide,

And let my God with me reside;

No wicked thing shall dwell with me,

Which may provoke thy jealousy.

No sons of slander, rage and strife

Shall be companions of my life;

The haughty look, the heart of pride

Within my doors shall ne'er abide.

[I'll search the land, and raise the just

To posts of honour, wealth and trust:

The men that work thy holy will,

Shall be my friends and favourites still.]

In vain shall sinners hope to rise

By flattering or malicious lies;

And while the innocent I guard,

The bold offender shan't be spar'd.

The impious crew (that factious band)

Shall hide their heads, or quit the land;

And all that break the public rest,

Where I have power shall be supprest.