Psalm 17
A Prayer of David
Oh hear, O LORD, my righteous plea,
and listen to my fervent cry.
Give ear unto my prayer and see,
it comes from lips that do not lie.
Let vindication come to me;
see truth and justice through your eye.
You’ve tried my heart, and probed each thought,
examined my heart in the night.
You’ve scrutinized me, finding naught;
I’ll only speak what’s pure and right.
Regarding men, your words have taught
me to avoid their violent plight.
My footsteps to your paths adhere;
my feet have neither slipped nor strayed.
I call on you, incline your ear;
God, listen to the prayers I’ve prayed.
Let your unfailing love appear
with wonders that your hands have made.
Save those who seek to utilize
the mighty refuge you provide.
Protect me as you would your eyes;
beneath your wings, LORD, let me hide
from all those seeking my demise,
and enemies on every side.
Their calloused hearts are closed with hate;
their arrogance and pride abound.
They track me down, surround and wait,
stand poised to throw me to the ground.
Like lions’ prey, they mutilate;
their young can stalk without a sound.
Arise, O LORD! Against them, stand,
and save me with your mighty sword
from wicked people by your hand
who view this world as their reward.
You fill their bellies’ great demand
with hidden treasure you have stored.
You let their wombs be filled with grace —
their children bearing children, too;
in death, their young resume the chase
to have their parent’s wealth accrue.
For me, one day I’ll see your face;
and I’ll be satisfied in you.
Oh hear, O LORD, my righteous plea,
and listen to my fervent cry.
Give ear unto my prayer and see,
it comes from lips that do not lie.
Let vindication come to me;
see truth and justice through your eye.
You’ve tried my heart, and probed each thought,
examined my heart in the night.
You’ve scrutinized me, finding naught;
I’ll only speak what’s pure and right.
Regarding men, your words have taught
me to avoid their violent plight.
My footsteps to your paths adhere;
my feet have neither slipped nor strayed.
I call on you, incline your ear;
God, listen to the prayers I’ve prayed.
Let your unfailing love appear
with wonders that your hands have made.
Save those who seek to utilize
the mighty refuge you provide.
Protect me as you would your eyes;
beneath your wings, LORD, let me hide
from all those seeking my demise,
and enemies on every side.
Their calloused hearts are closed with hate;
their arrogance and pride abound.
They track me down, surround and wait,
stand poised to throw me to the ground.
Like lions’ prey, they mutilate;
their young can stalk without a sound.
Arise, O LORD! Against them, stand,
and save me with your mighty sword
from wicked people by your hand
who view this world as their reward.
You fill their bellies’ great demand
with hidden treasure you have stored.
You let their wombs be filled with grace —
their children bearing children, too;
in death, their young resume the chase
to have their parent’s wealth accrue.
For me, one day I’ll see your face;
and I’ll be satisfied in you.
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