17

Hear me, Lord, my plea is just
Listen to my cry
Hear my prayer—
From deceitful lips it does not rise

Let my vindication come from You
May Your eyes see what is right
Though You probe my heart
Though you examine me and test me at night

You will find that I have planned no evil
My mouth has not transgressed
Though people tried to bribe me
I have kept myself from the ways of the violent

I have kept myself from the ways of the violent
Through what Your lips have commanded
My steps have held to Your paths
My feet have not stumbled

I call on You, my God, for You will answer me
Turn Your ear to me and hear my prayer
Show me the wonders of Your great love
Show me that You care

You who save by Your right hand
Those who take refuge in You from their foes and evil things
Keep me as the apple of Your eye
Hide me in the shadow of Your wings

From the wicked who are out to destroy me
From my mortal enemies who surround me
They close up their callous hearts
And their mouths speak with arrogance

They have tracked me down, they now surround me
With eyes alert, to throw me to the ground
They are like a lion hungry for prey
Like a fierce lion crouching in cover of night not day

Rise up, Lord, confront them, bring them down
With Your sword rescue me from the wicked and their knives
By Your hand save me from such people, Lord
From those of this world whose reward is in this life

May what You have stored up for the wicked fill their bellies
May their children gorge themselves on it
And may there be leftovers for their little ones
I will personally with all my heart believe in it

As for me, I will be vindicated and will see Your face
When I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing Your likeness
Every day and every night I will sing You praise
Hoping to extend my earth days