Psalms 17
Psalm 171
A prayer of David.
17:1 Lord, consider my just cause!2
Pay attention to my cry for help!
Listen to the prayer
I sincerely offer!3
17:2 Make a just decision on my behalf!4
Decide what is right!5
17:3 You have scrutinized my inner motives;6
you have examined me during the night.7
You have carefully evaluated me, but you find no sin.
I am determined I will say nothing sinful.8
17:4 As for the actions of people9 –
just as you have commanded,
I have not followed in the footsteps of violent men.10
17:5 I carefully obey your commands;11
I do not deviate from them.12
17:6 I call to you for you will answer me, O God.
Listen to me!13
Hear what I say!14
17:7 Accomplish awesome, faithful deeds,15
you who powerfully deliver those who look to you for protection from their enemies.16
17:8 Protect me as you would protect the pupil of your eye!17
Hide me in the shadow of your wings!18
17:9 Protect me from19 the wicked men who attack20 me,
my enemies who crowd around me for the kill.21
17:10 They are calloused;22
they speak arrogantly.23
17:11 They attack me, now they surround me;24
they intend to throw me to the ground.25
17:12 He26 is like a lion27 that wants to tear its prey to bits,28
like a young lion crouching29 in hidden places.
Confront him!30 Knock him down!31
Use your sword to rescue me from the wicked man!32
17:14 Lord, use your power to deliver me from these murderers,33
from the murderers of this world!34
They enjoy prosperity;35
you overwhelm them with the riches they desire.36
They have many children,
and leave their wealth to their offspring.37
17:15 As for me, because I am innocent I will see your face;38
when I awake you will reveal yourself to me.39