Study Desk

A prayer of David.

Hear me,^(a) Lord , my plea is just; listen to my cry.^(b) Hear^(c) my prayer— it does not rise from deceitful lips.^(d)

Let my vindication^(e) come from you; may your eyes see what is right.^(f)

Though you probe my heart,^(g) though you examine me at night and test me,^(h) you will find that I have planned no evil;⁽ⁱ⁾ my mouth has not transgressed.^(j)

Though people tried to bribe me, I have kept myself from the ways of the violent through what your lips have commanded.

My steps have held to your paths;^(k) my feet have not stumbled.^(l)

I call on you, my God, for you will answer me;^(m) turn your ear to me⁽ⁿ⁾ and hear my prayer.^(o)

Show me the wonders of your great love,^(p) you who save by your right hand^(q) those who take refuge^(r) in you from their foes.

Keep me^(s) as the apple of your eye;^(t) hide me^(u) in the shadow of your wings^(v)

from the wicked who are out to destroy me, from my mortal enemies who surround me.^(w)

They close up their callous hearts,^(x) and their mouths speak with arrogance.^(y)

They have tracked me down, they now surround me,^(z) with eyes alert, to throw me to the ground.

They are like a lion^(aa) hungry for prey,^(ab) like a fierce lion crouching in cover.

Rise up,^(ac) Lord , confront them, bring them down;^(ad) with your sword rescue me from the wicked.

By your hand save me from such people, Lord , from those of this world^(ae) whose reward is in this life.^(af) May what you have stored up for the wicked fill their bellies; may their children gorge themselves on it, and may there be leftovers^(ag) for their little ones.

As for me, I will be vindicated and will see your face; when I awake,^(ah) I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.^(ai)