Psalms 61

1 God, listen to me, and answer my prayer [DOU]!

For the chief musician; on a stringed instrument. A psalm of David. Hear my cry, God; attend to my prayer.

2 While I am discouraged and far from my home, I am calling out to you. Lead me to [the place that is like] a high rock [MET] on top of which I will be safe.

From the ends of the earth will I call to you when my heart is faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

3 You have been my refuge; you have been [like] a strong tower [MET] [in which I am safe] from being attacked by my enemies.

For you have been a refuge for me, a strong tower from the enemy.

4 Allow me to live close to your temple all during my life [HYP]! Allow me to be safe [MET], [like a little bird is safe] under [its mother’s] wings.

Let me live in your tabernacle forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings. (Selah)

5 God, you heard me when I solemnly promised [to give offerings to you]; you have given to me the blessings that belong to those who have an awesome respect for you [MTY].

For you, God, have heard my vows, you have given me the inheritance of those who honor your name.

6 [I am] the king [of Israel]; [please] allow me to live [and rule] for many years, and allow my descendants to rule [also].

You will prolong the king's life; his years will be like many generations.

7 Allow us to rule forever while you observe us; watch over us while you faithfully love us and do for us what you promised.

He will remain before God forever.

8 If you do that, I will always sing to praise you [MTY] while I offer to you each day the sacrifices that I promised to give to you.

I will sing praise to your name forever so that I may perform my vows every day.