« | Psalm 34 | » |
1 I bless GOD every chance I get; my lungs expand with his praise.
2 I live and breathe GOD; if things aren't going well, hear this and be happy:
3 Join me in spreading the news; together let's get the word out.
4 GOD met me more than halfway, he freed me from my anxious fears.
5 Look at him; give him your warmest smile. Never hide your feelings from him.
6 When I was desperate, I called out, and GOD got me out of a tight spot.
7 GOD's angel sets up a circle of protection around us while we pray.
8 Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see-- how good GOD is. Blessed are you who run to him.
9 Worship GOD if you want the best; worship opens doors to all his goodness.
10 Young lions on the prowl get hungry, but GOD-seekers are full of God.
11 Come, children, listen closely; I'll give you a lesson in GOD worship.
12 Who out there has a lust for life? Can't wait each day to come upon beauty?
13 Guard your tongue from profanity, and no more lying through your teeth.
14 Turn your back on sin; do something good. Embrace peace--don't let it get away!
15 GOD keeps an eye on his friends, his ears pick up every moan and groan.
16 GOD won't put up with rebels; he'll cull them from the pack.
17 Is anyone crying for help? GOD is listening, ready to rescue you.
18 If your heart is broken, you'll find GOD right there; if you're kicked in the gut, he'll help you catch your breath.
19 Disciples so often get into trouble; still, GOD is there every time.
20 He's your bodyguard, shielding every bone; not even a finger gets broken.
21 The wicked commit slow suicide; they waste their lives hating the good.
22 GOD pays for each slave's freedom; no one who runs to him loses out.
The Message (MSG)
The Message (MSG) is a contemporary, paraphrased translation of the Bible, crafted to bring the scriptures to life in modern, conversational English. Developed by pastor and scholar Eugene H. Peterson, The Message was published in segments starting in 1993, with the complete Bible released in 2002. Peterson’s aim was to make the Bible accessible and engaging for today’s readers, breaking down the barriers posed by traditional, formal language. His work sought to capture the original tone, rhythm, and intent of the biblical texts, presenting them in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.
One of the defining characteristics of The Message is its use of dynamic equivalence, focusing on conveying the thoughts and meanings behind the original texts rather than adhering to a word-for-word translation. This approach allows for the use of idiomatic expressions and modern phrasing, making the scriptures feel more relatable and immediate. Peterson, who had a deep understanding of both the biblical languages and modern culture, aimed to bridge the gap between the ancient world of the Bible and the everyday experiences of today’s readers.
The Message has been praised for its readability and ability to convey the emotional and narrative elements of the Bible in a fresh, vivid manner. Its accessible language makes it particularly appealing to those who might find traditional translations difficult to understand or intimidating. Many readers appreciate The Message for its ability to make familiar passages feel new and impactful, often shedding light on the scriptures in ways that resonate on a personal level. It is frequently used in personal devotions, group studies, and church services where clarity and relatability are paramount.
Despite its popularity, The Message has faced criticism from some scholars and traditionalists who argue that its paraphrased nature can lead to oversimplification and loss of nuance. Critics contend that in striving for contemporary relevance, The Message sometimes departs too far from the original texts, potentially altering the intended meanings. However, supporters of The Message appreciate its ability to engage modern readers and spark interest in the Bible, seeing it as a valuable tool for evangelism and discipleship. Overall, The Message stands out as a bold and innovative translation that has made a significant impact on how many people experience and understand the Bible.