(A psalm by David for the music leader. Use flutes.)
A Prayer for Help
1Listen, Lord, as I pray!
Pay attention when I groan.
2You are my King and my God.
Answer my cry for help
because I pray to you.
3Each morning you listen
to my prayer,
as I bring my requests to you
and wait for your reply.
4You are not the kind of God
who is pleased with evil.
Sinners can't stay with you.
5No one who boasts can stand
in your presence, Lord,
and you hate evil people.
6You destroy every liar,
and you despise violence
and deceit.
7Because of your great mercy,
I come to your house, Lord,
and I am filled with wonder
as I bow down to worship
at your holy temple.
8You do what is right,
and I ask you to guide me.
Make your teaching clear
because of my enemies.
9 Nothing they say is true!
They just want to destroy.
Their words are deceitful
like a hidden pit,
and their tongues are good
only for telling lies.
10Punish them, God,
and let their own plans
bring their downfall.
Get rid of them!
They keep committing crimes
and turning against you.
11Let all who run to you
for protection
always sing joyful songs.
Provide shelter for those
who truly love you
and let them rejoice.
12Our Lord, you bless those
who live right,
and you shield them
with your kindness.