[1] Save me, O Eternal One, from the evil men who seek my life. Shield me from this band of violent men. [2] Their hearts devise evil! They conspire against me; they are constantly causing a storm of war. [3] These snakes have sharpened their tongues; viper venom hides beneath their lips. [pause] [4] Keep me from the grip of these cruel men, O Eternal One. Shield me from this band of violent men whose only intention is to trip me up and undermine all I do. [5] Those arrogant people are trying to catch me; they've laid their trap, hiding a net along my path; their traps are set, and I am the prey. [pause] [6] "Eternal One," I said, "You are my one and only God. Hear me, O Eternal, hear my humble cry for rescue. [7] O Lord, Eternal One, power of my deliverance, You are my helmet in the day of battle. [8] So do not fulfill the desires of these evildoers, Eternal One; do not advance their evil schemes, lest they brag about their successes. [pause] [9] "As for the gang leader of those who surround me, let their mischievous words cover them; smother them in trouble. [10] Let hot coals fall from heaven upon them and cast them into the roaring fires. May they sink into the muddy marsh from which there is no return. [11] Let no liar find a home anywhere in the land; let evil hunt down the violent man and do him in quickly." [12] I am certain the Eternal supports the cause of the distressed; the poor will receive the justice they deserve. [13] Indeed, the just-living will glorify Your name, and honorable people will be at home in Your presence.
