1How wonderful is the place where you live, Lord Almighty!

2I long, I ache, to be in the courts ²⁹⁶of the Lord. My mind and my body sing for joy to the living God.

3Even a sparrow finds a home there, and a swallow builds a nest for herself where she can raise her chicks near to your altars, Lord Almighty, my king and my God.

4How happy are those who live in your house—they are always praising you! Selah.

5How happy are those whose strength is in you, those who are determined to make a pilgrimage.

6As they walk through the Valley of Tears ²⁹⁷it becomes a spring of water; autumn rains cover it with pools.

7They go from strength to strength, and each one will appear before God in Jerusalem.

8Lord God Almighty, please hear my prayer; please listen, God of Jacob. Selah.

9Please God, look at our defender, look at the face of your anointed one.

10One day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else. I'd rather stand as a doorkeeper in the house of my God than live comfortably in the homes of the wicked.

11For the Lord God is our sun and shield, and he gives us grace and honor. The Lord doesn't hold back anything good from those who do right.

12Lord Almighty, how happy are those who trust in you.