[1] Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men, [2] who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually. [3] They make their tongue sharp as a serpent's, and under their lips is the venom of asps. Selah [4] Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have planned to trip up my feet. [5] The arrogant have hidden a trap for me, and with cords they have spread a net; beside the way they have set snares for me. Selah [6] I say to the LORD, You are my God; give ear to the voice of my pleas for mercy, O LORD! [7] O LORD, my Lord, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle. [8] Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted! Selah [9] As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them! [10] Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast into fire, into miry pits, no more to rise! [11] Let not the slanderer be established in the land; let evil hunt down the violent man speedily! [12] I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will execute justice for the needy. [13] Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence.
