Psalm 86

Psalm 86

A prayer of David.

1Hear me, Lord, and answer me,
    for I am poor and needy.
2Guard my life, for I am faithful to you;
    save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God; have mercy on me, Lord,
    for I call to you all day long.
4Bring joy to your servant, Lord,
    for I put my trust in you.

5You, Lord, are forgiving and good,
    abounding in love to all who call to you.
6Hear my prayer, Lord;
    listen to my cry for mercy.
7When I am in distress, I call to you,
    because you answer me.

8Among the gods there is none like you, Lord;
    no deeds can compare with yours.
9All the nations you have made
    will come and worship before you, Lord;
    they will bring glory to your name.
10For you are great and do marvelous deeds;
    you alone are God.

11Teach me your way, Lord,
    that I may rely on your faithfulness;
give me an undivided heart,
    that I may fear your name.
12I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart;
    I will glorify your name forever.
13For great is your love toward me;
    you have delivered me from the depths,
    from the realm of the dead.

14Arrogant foes are attacking me, O God;
    ruthless people are trying to kill me—
    they have no regard for you.
15But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,
    slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.
16Turn to me and have mercy on me;
    show your strength in behalf of your servant;
save me, because I serve you
    just as my mother did.
17Give me a sign of your goodness,
    that my enemies may see it and be put to shame,
    for you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me.