LORD, hear my righteous plea

LORD, hear my righteous plea and listen to my cry; It does not rise deceitfully or come from lips that lie.

Declare me innocent and vindicate my name; LORD, may your eye see what is right and free me from all blame.

Though you examine me and probe my heart and mind, And though you test me in the night, yet nothing you will find.

I said, “I will not sin in anything I say.” From those who practise violence I have kept far away.

From every evil path by your word I’m preserved. My feet have held to all your ways; from them I have not swerved.

I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; O turn your ear towards my prayer and hear my earnest plea.

Display your steadfast love and save with your right hand All those who flee for help to you when foes against them stand.

In shadow of your wings hide me in times of strife; And as the apple of your eye preserve and guard my life.

Hide me from ruthless foes who follow wicked ways, From those who circle me about and seek to end my days.

They close their callous hearts; they speak with swelling pride. They dog my steps; my enemies are found on every side.

They fix their eyes on me to cast me to the ground. Like hungry lions stalking prey, they crouch without a sound.

Arise, confront my foes and bring them down, O LORD; Deliver me from wicked hands and free me by your sword.

Save me by your right hand from all such people, LORD, From mortal men who in this life will have their sole reward.

You fill them with good things; their sons are satisfied. They leave their children all the wealth which they have set aside.

But I in righteousness your face will surely see; And with your likeness, when I wake, I satisfied will be.