(A psalm by David.)

A prayer in time of danger

1Listen, LORD, as I pray!

You are faithful and honest

and will answer my prayer.

2I am your servant.143.2: Ro 3.20; Ga 2.16.

Don't try me in your court,

because no one is innocent

by your standards.

3My enemies are chasing me,

crushing me in the ground.

I am in total darkness,

like someone long dead.

4I have given up all hope,

and I feel numb all over.

5I remember to think about

the many things you did

in years gone by.

6Then I lift my hands in prayer,

because my soul is a desert,

thirsty for water from you.

7Please hurry, LORD,

and answer my prayer.

I feel hopeless.

Don't turn away

and leave me here to die.

8Each morning let me learn

more about your love

because I trust you.

I come to you in prayer,

asking for your guidance.

9Please rescue me

from my enemies, LORD!

I come to you for safety.143.9 I…safety: Or “You are my hiding place.”

10You are my God. Show me

what you want me to do,

and let your gentle Spirit

lead me in the right path.

11Be true to your name, LORD,

and keep my life safe.

Use your saving power

to protect me from trouble.

12I am your servant.

Show how much you love me

by destroying my enemies.