Psalm 140:1-9

Psalm 140In Hebrew texts 140:1-13 is numbered 140:2-14. 1For the director of music. A psalm of David. Rescue me, LORD, from evildoers; protect me from the violent,

2who devise evil plans in their hearts and stir up war every day.

3They make their tongues as sharp as a serpent’s; the poison of vipers is on their lips. The Hebrew has Selah (a word of uncertain meaning) here and at the end of verses 5 and 8.

4Keep me safe, LORD, from the hands of the wicked; protect me from the violent, who devise ways to trip my feet.

5The arrogant have hidden a snare for me; they have spread out the cords of their net and have set traps for me along my path.

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

7Sovereign LORD, my strong deliverer, you shield my head in the day of battle.

8Do not grant the wicked their desires, LORD ; do not let their plans succeed.

9Those who surround me proudly rear their heads; may the mischief of their lips engulf them.