Psalms 140

1 For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. Rescue me, O LORD, from evil men. Protect me from men of violence,

2 who devise evil in their hearts and stir up war all day long.

3 They sharpen their tongues like snakes; the venom of vipers is on their lips.

4 Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked. Keep me safe from men of violence who scheme to make me stumble.

5 The proud hide a snare for me; the cords of their net are spread along the path, and lures are set out for me.

6 I say to the LORD, “You are my God.” Hear, O LORD, my cry for help.

7 O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You shield my head in the day of battle.

8 Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not promote their evil plans, lest they be exalted.

9 May the heads of those who surround me be covered in the trouble their lips have caused.

10 May burning coals fall on them; may they be thrown into the fire, into the miry pits, never to rise again.

11 May no slanderer be established in the land; may calamity hunt down the man of violence.

12 I know that the LORD upholds justice for the poor and defends the cause of the needy.

13 Surely the righteous will praise Your name; the upright will dwell in Your presence.