1Deliver me, O LORD , from the evil man : preserve me from the violent man ; 2Which imagine mischiefs in their heart ; continually are they gathered together for war . 3They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent ; adders’ poison is under their lips . Selah . 4Keep me, O LORD , from the hands of the wicked ; preserve me from the violent man ; who have purposed to overthrow my goings . 5The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords ; they have spread a net by the wayside ; they have set gins for me. Selah .
Confidence in God's Justice
6I said unto the LORD , Thou art my God : hear the voice of my supplications , O LORD . 7O GOD the Lord , the strength of my salvation , thou hast covered my head in the day of battle . 8Grant not, O LORD , the desires of the wicked : further not his wicked device ; lest they exalt themselves. Selah .
The Fate of the Wicked
9As for the head of those that compass me about , let the mischief of their own lips cover them. 10Let burning coals fall upon them: let them be cast into the fire ; into deep pits , that they rise not up again . 11Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth : evil shall hunt the violent man to overthrow him .
A Call for Praise
12I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted , and the right of the poor . 13Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name : the upright shall dwell in thy presence .