1Psalm 17 A prayer of David. Hear, O Lord, my righteous plea; listen to my cry. Give ear to my prayer— it does not rise from deceitful lips.
2May my vindication come from you; may your eyes see what is right.
3Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.
4As for the deeds of men— by the word of your lips I have kept myself from the ways of the violent.
5My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not slipped.
6I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer.
7Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes.
8Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings
9from the wicked who assail me, from my mortal enemies who surround me.
10They close up their callous hearts, and their mouths speak with arrogance.
11They have tracked me down, they now surround me, with eyes alert, to throw me to the ground.
12They are like a lion hungry for prey, like a great lion crouching in cover.
13Rise up, O Lord, confront them, bring them down; rescue me from the wicked by your sword.
14O Lord, by your hand save me from such men, from men of this world whose reward is in this life. You still the hunger of those you cherish; their sons have plenty, and they store up wealth for their children.
15And I—in righteousness I will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.