Psalm 5

Psalm 5[a]

For the director of music. For pipes. A psalm of David.

1Listen to my words, Lord,
    consider my lament.
2Hear my cry for help,
    my King and my God,
    for to you I pray.

3In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;
    in the morning I lay my requests before you
    and wait expectantly.
4For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness;
    with you, evil people are not welcome.
5The arrogant cannot stand
    in your presence.
You hate all who do wrong;
6    you destroy those who tell lies.
The bloodthirsty and deceitful
    you, Lord, detest.
7But I, by your great love,
    can come into your house;
in reverence I bow down
    toward your holy temple.

8Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness
    because of my enemies—
    make your way straight before me.
9Not a word from their mouth can be trusted;
    their heart is filled with malice.
Their throat is an open grave;
    with their tongues they tell lies.
10Declare them guilty, O God!
    Let their intrigues be their downfall.
Banish them for their many sins,
    for they have rebelled against you.
11But let all who take refuge in you be glad;
    let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
    that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

12Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous;
    you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

Footnotes

  1. Psalm 5:1 In Hebrew texts 5:1-12 is numbered 5:2-13.