A Prayer of David.

1Hear a just cause, O LORD, give heed to my cry;
         Give ear to my prayer, which is not from deceitful lips.

2Let my judgment come forth from Your presence;
         Let Your eyes look with equity.

3You have tried my heart;
         You have visited me by night;
         You have tested me and You find nothing;
         I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.

4As for the deeds of men, by the word of Your lips
         I have kept from the paths of the violent.

5My steps have held fast to Your paths.
         My feet have not slipped.

6I have called upon You, for You will answer me, O God;
         Incline Your ear to me, hear my speech.

7Wondrously show Your lovingkindness,
         O Savior of those who take refuge at Your right hand
         From those who rise up against them.

8Keep me as the apple of the eye;
         Hide me in the shadow of Your wings

9From the wicked who despoil me,
         My deadly enemies who surround me.

10They have closed their unfeeling heart,
         With their mouth they speak proudly.

11They have now surrounded us in our steps;
         They set their eyes to cast us down to the ground.

12He is like a lion that is eager to tear,
         And as a young lion lurking in hiding places.

13Arise, O LORD, confront him, bring him low;
         Deliver my soul from the wicked with Your sword,

14From men with Your hand, O LORD,
         From men of the world, whose portion is in this life,
         And whose belly You fill with Your treasure;
         They are satisfied with children,
         And leave their abundance to their babes.

15As for me, I shall behold Your face in righteousness;
         I will be satisfied with Your likeness when I awake.

NASB ©1995