« | Psalm 71 | » |
1 I run for dear life to GOD, I'll never live to regret it.
2 Do what you do so well: get me out of this mess and up on my feet. Put your ear to the ground and listen, give me space for salvation.
3 Be a guest room where I can retreat; you said your door was always open! You're my salvation--my vast, granite fortress.
4 My God, free me from the grip of Wicked, from the clutch of Bad and Bully.
5 You keep me going when times are tough-- my bedrock, GOD, since my childhood.
6 I've hung on you from the day of my birth, the day you took me from the cradle; I'll never run out of praise.
7 Many gasp in alarm when they see me, but you take me in stride.
8 Just as each day brims with your beauty, my mouth brims with praise.
9 But don't turn me out to pasture when I'm old or put me on the shelf when I can't pull my weight.
10 My enemies are talking behind my back, watching for their chance to knife me.
11 The gossip is: "God has abandoned him. Pounce on him now; no one will help him."
12 God, don't just watch from the sidelines. Come on! Run to my side!
13 My accusers--make them lose face. Those out to get me--make them look Like idiots,
14 while I stretch out, reaching for you, and daily add praise to praise.
15 I'll write the book on your righteousness, talk up your salvation the livelong day, never run out of good things to write or say.
16 I come in the power of the Lord GOD, I post signs marking his right-of-way.
17 You got me when I was an unformed youth, God, and taught me everything I know. Now I'm telling the world your wonders;
18 I'll keep at it until I'm old and gray. God, don't walk off and leave me until I get out the news Of your strong right arm to this world, news of your power to the world yet to come,
19 Your famous and righteous ways, O God. God, you've done it all! Who is quite like you?
20 You, who made me stare trouble in the face, Turn me around; Now let me look life in the face. I've been to the bottom; Bring me up,
21 streaming with honors; turn to me, be tender to me,
22 And I'll take up the lute and thank you to the tune of your faithfulness, God. I'll make music for you on a harp, Holy One of Israel.
23 When I open up in song to you, I let out lungsful of praise, my rescued life a song.
24 All day long I'm chanting about you and your righteous ways, While those who tried to do me in slink off looking ashamed.
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.