(A psalm by David for the music leader. Use flutes.)

A Prayer for Help

1Listen, Lord, as I pray!

Pay attention when I groan.+

2You are my King and my God.

Answer my cry for help

because I pray to you.

3Each morning you listen

to my prayer,

as I bring my requests+ to you

and wait for your reply.

4You are not the kind of God

who is pleased with evil.

Sinners can't stay with you.

5No one who boasts can stand

in your presence, Lord,

and you hate evil people.

6You destroy every liar,

and you despise violence

and deceit.

7Because of your great mercy,

I come to your house, Lord,

and I am filled with wonder

as I bow down to worship

at your holy temple.

8You do what is right,

and I ask you to guide me.

Make your teaching clear

because of my enemies.

9 Nothing they say is true!

They just want to destroy.

Their words are deceitful

like a hidden pit,

and their tongues are good

only for telling lies.

10Punish them, God,

and let their own plans

bring their downfall.

Get rid of them!

They keep committing crimes

and turning against you.

11Let all who run to you

for protection

always sing joyful songs.

Provide shelter for those

who truly love you

and let them rejoice.

12Our Lord, you bless those

who live right,

and you shield them

with your kindness.