The law of the LORD is perfect; it gives new strength. The commands of the LORD are trustworthy, giving wisdom to those who lack it.

Reverence for the LORD is good; it will continue forever. The judgments of the LORD are just; they are always fair.

They give knowledge to me, your servant; I am rewarded for obeying them.

How can young people keep their lives pure? By obeying your commands.

I keep your law in my heart, so that I will not sin against you.

Their instructions are a shining light; their correction can teach you how to live.

For no one is put right in God's sight by doing what the Law requires; what the Law does is to make us know that we have sinned.

(SEE 9:1)

We, the people of Israel, the priests, the Levites, the Temple guards, the Temple musicians, the Temple workers, and all others who in obedience to God's Law have separated themselves from the foreigners living in our land, we, together with our wives and all our children old enough to understand,

Now then, confess your sins to the LORD, the God of your ancestors, and do what pleases him. Separate yourselves from the foreigners living in our land and get rid of your foreign wives."

What God the Father considers to be pure and genuine religion is this: to take care of orphans and widows in their suffering and to keep oneself from being corrupted by the world.

A large number of other people and many sheep, goats, and cattle also went with them.

There were foreigners traveling with the Israelites. They had a strong craving for meat, and even the Israelites themselves began to complain: "If only we could have some meat!