Psalm 17

A prayer of David.

1Hear, Yahweh, a just cause; pay attention to my cry; listen to my prayer, which does not come from deceitful lips.

2Let my vindication come from your presence; let your eyes see what is right.

3You have tested my heart; you have examined me at night; you have refined me and found nothing. I have resolved that my mouth will not do wrong.

4As for the deeds of people, by the word of your lips I have kept myself from the ways of the violent.

5My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not slipped.

6I call on you, for you will answer me, God; turn your ear to me; hear my words.

7Show the wonders of your steadfast love, you who by your right hand save those who take refuge in you from those who rise up against them.

8Guard me like the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings

9from the wicked who assault me, my deadly enemies who surround me.

10They have closed their unfeeling hearts; their mouths speak arrogantly.

11They have tracked our steps; now they surround us; they fix their eyes on throwing us to the ground.

12He is like a lion eager to tear its prey, like a young lion crouching in hiding.

13Rise up, Yahweh! Confront him; bring him down! Rescue my life from the wicked by your sword,

14from people, by your hand, Yahweh, from people of this world whose portion is in this life. You fill their bellies with what you have stored up; their children have plenty, and they leave what is left to their little ones.

15As for me, in righteousness I will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.