(By David.)

A prayer of praise

1You, LORD, are the light

that keeps me safe.

I am not afraid of anyone.

You protect me,

and I have no fears.

2Brutal people may attack

and try to kill me,

but they will stumble.

Fierce enemies may attack,

but they will fall.

3Armies may surround me,

but I won't be afraid;

war may break out,

but I will trust you.

4I ask only one thing, LORD:

Let me live in your house

every day of my life

to see how wonderful you are

and to pray in your temple.

5In times of trouble,

you will protect me.

You will hide me in your tent

and keep me safe

on top of a mighty rock.27.5 mighty rock: See the note at 18.2.

6You will let me defeat

all of my enemies.

Then I will celebrate,

as I enter your tent

with animal sacrifices

and songs of praise.

7Please listen when I pray!

Have pity. Answer my prayer.

8My heart tells me to pray.

I am eager to see your face,

9so don't hide from me.

I am your servant,

and you have helped me.

Don't turn from me in anger.

You alone keep me safe.

Don't reject or desert me.

10Even if my father and mother

should desert me,

you will take care of me.

11Teach me to follow, LORD,

and lead me on the right path

because of my enemies.

12Don't let them do to me

what they want.

People tell lies about me

and make terrible threats,

13but I know I will live

to see how kind you are.

14Trust the LORD!

Be brave and strong

and trust the LORD.