[1] I come to you, LORD, for protection. Don't let me be ashamed. Do as you have promised and rescue me. [2] Listen to my prayer and hurry to save me. Be my mighty rock and the fortress where I am safe. [3] You, LORD God, are my mighty rock and my fortress. Lead me and guide me, so that your name will be honored. [4] Protect me from hidden traps and keep me safe. [5] You are faithful, and I trust you because you rescued me. [6] I hate the worshipers of worthless idols, but I trust you, LORD. [7] I celebrate and shout because you are kind. You saw all my suffering, and you cared for me. [8] You kept me from the hands of my enemies, and you set me free. [9] Have pity, LORD! I am hurting and almost blind. My whole body aches. [10] I have known only sorrow all my life long, and I suffer year after year. I am weak from sin, and my bones are limp. [11] My enemies insult me. Neighbors are even worse, and I disgust my friends. People meet me on the street, and they turn and run. [12] I am completely forgotten like someone dead. I am merely a broken dish. [13] I hear the crowds whisper, "Everyone is afraid!" They are plotting and scheming to murder me. [14] But I trust you, LORD, and I claim you as my God. [15] My life is in your hands. Save me from enemies who hunt me down. [16] Smile on me, your servant. Have pity and rescue me. [17] I pray only to you. Don't disappoint me. Disappoint my cruel enemies until they lie silent in their graves. [18] Silence those proud liars! Make them stop bragging and insulting your people. [19] You are wonderful, and while everyone watches, you store up blessings for all who honor and trust you. [20] You are their shelter from harmful plots, and you are their protection from vicious gossip. [21] I will praise you, LORD, for showing great kindness when I was like a city under attack. [22] I was terrified and thought, "They've chased me far away from you!" But you answered my prayer when I shouted for help. [23] All who belong to the LORD, show how you love him. The LORD protects the faithful, but he severely punishes everyone who is proud. [24] All who trust the LORD, be cheerful and strong.
