(A psalm by David for the music leader.)
A Prayer for Help
1I patiently waited, Lord,
for you to hear my prayer.
You listened 2and pulled me
from a lonely pit
full of mud and mire.
You let me stand on a rock
with my feet firm,
3and you gave me a new song,
a song of praise to you.
Many will see this,
and they will honor and trust
you, the Lord God.
4You bless all of those
who trust you, Lord,
and refuse to worship idols
or follow false gods.
5You, Lord God, have done
many wonderful things,
and you have planned
marvelous things for us.
No one is like you!
I would never be able to tell
all you have done.
6 Sacrifices and offerings
are not what please you;
gifts and payment for sin
are not what you demand.
But you made me willing
to listen and obey.
7And so, I said, “I am here
to do what is written
about me in the book,
where it says,
8‘I enjoy pleasing you.
Your Law is in my heart.’ ”
9When your people worshiped,
you know I told them,
“Our Lord always helps!”
10When all your people met,
I did not keep silent.
I said, “Our Lord is kind.
He is faithful and caring,
and he saves us.”
11You, Lord, never fail
to have pity on me;
your love and faithfulness
always keep me secure.
12I have more troubles
than I can count.
My sins are all around me,
and I can't find my way.
My sins outnumber
the hairs on my head,
and I feel weak.
13Please show that you care
and come to my rescue.
Hurry and help me!
14Disgrace and confuse
all who want me dead;
turn away and disgrace
all who want to hurt me.
15Embarrass and shame
everyone who says,
“Just look at you now!”
16Our Lord, let your worshipers
rejoice and be glad.
They love you for saving them,
so let them always say,
“The Lord is wonderful!”
17I am poor and needy,
but, Lord God,
you care about me,
and you come to my rescue.
Please hurry and help.