[1] A Prayer. Of David. Let my cause come to your ears, O Lord, give
attention to my cry; give ear to my prayer which goes not out from false
lips. [2] Be my judge; for your eyes see what is right. [3] You have put my
heart to the test, searching me in the night; you have put me to the test
and seen no evil purpose in me; I will keep my mouth from sin. [4] As for
the works of men, by the word of your lips I have kept myself from the ways
of the violent. [5] I have kept my feet in your ways, my steps have not
been turned away. [6] My cry has gone up to you, for you will give me an
answer, O God: let your ear be turned to me, and give attention to my
words. [7] Make clear the wonder of your mercy, O saviour of those who put
their faith in your right hand, from those who come out against them. [8]
Keep me as the light of your eyes, covering me with the shade of your
wings, [9] From the evil-doers who are violent to me, and from those who
are round me, desiring my death. [10] They are shut up in their fat: with
their mouths they say words of pride. [11] They have made a circle round
our steps: their eyes are fixed on us, forcing us down to the earth; [12]
Like a lion desiring its food, and like a young lion waiting in secret
places. [13] Up! Lord, come out against him, make him low, with your sword
be my saviour from the evil-doer. [14] With your hand, O Lord, from men,
even men of the world, whose heritage is in this life, and whom you make
full with your secret wealth: they are full of children; after their death
their offspring take the rest of their goods. [15] As for me, I will see
your face in righteousness: when I am awake it will be joy enough for me to
see your form.
