1 A psalm of David.I pray to you, O Lord, my rock.Do not turn a deaf ear to me.For if you are silent,I might as well give up and die.
2 Listen to my prayer for mercyas I cry out to you for help,as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary.
3 Do not drag me away with the wicked—with those who do evil—those who speak friendly words to their neighborswhile planning evil in their hearts.
4 Give them the punishment they so richly deserve!Measure it out in proportion to their wickedness.Pay them back for all their evil deeds!Give them a taste of what they have done to others.
5 They care nothing for what the Lord has doneor for what his hands have made.So he will tear them down,and they will never be rebuilt!
6 Praise the Lord!For he has heard my cry for mercy.
7 The Lord is my strength and shield.I trust him with all my heart.He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.
8 The Lord gives his people strength.He is a safe fortress for his anointed king.
9 Save your people!Bless Israel, your special possession.Lead them like a shepherd,and carry them in your arms forever.