Revised Common Lectionary (Complementary)
9 Be gracious to me, Lord,
because I am in distress;(A)
my eyes are worn out from angry sorrow—
my whole being[a] as well.(B)
10 Indeed, my life is consumed with grief
and my years with groaning;(C)
my strength has failed
because of my sinfulness,[b]
and my bones waste away.(D)
11 I am ridiculed by all my adversaries
and even by my neighbors.
I am dreaded by my acquaintances;
those who see me in the street run from me.(E)
12 I am forgotten: gone from memory
like a dead person—like broken pottery.(F)
13 I have heard the gossip of many;
terror is on every side.(G)
When they conspired against me,
they plotted to take my life.(H)
13 Be quiet,[a] and I will speak.
Let whatever comes happen to me.
14 Why do I put myself at risk[b]
and take my life in my own hands?
15 Even if He kills me, I will hope in Him.[c]
I will still defend(A) my ways before Him.
16 Yes, this will result in my deliverance,
for no godless person(B) can appear before Him.
17 Pay close attention to my words;
let my declaration ring in your ears.
18 Now then, I have prepared my case;(C)
I know that I am right.
19 Can anyone indict me?
If so, I will be silent and die.
Living Is Christ
21 For me, living is Christ(A) and dying is gain.(B) 22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful(C) work(D) for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. 23 I am pressured by both. I have the desire to depart and be with Christ(E)—which is far better(F)— 24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. 25 Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,(G) 26 so that, because of me, your confidence may grow(H) in Christ Jesus(I) when I come to you again.
27 Just one thing: Live your life(J) in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm(K) in one(L) spirit, with one mind,[a] working side by side for the faith(M) that comes from the gospel, 28 not being frightened in any way by your opponents.(N) This is a sign of destruction for them,(O) but of your deliverance(P)—and this is from God. 29 For it has been given to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe(Q) in Him, but also to suffer for Him, 30 having the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear that I have.
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