A psalm of David.

1I pray to you, O LORD, my rock.

Do not turn a deaf ear to me.

For if you are silent,

I might as well give up and die.

2Listen to my prayer for mercy

as I cry out to you for help,

as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary.

3Do not drag me away with the wicked—

with those who do evil—

those who speak friendly words to their neighbors

while planning evil in their hearts.

4Give them the punishment they so richly deserve!

Measure it out in proportion to their wickedness.

Pay them back for all their evil deeds!

Give them a taste of what they have done to others.

5They care nothing for what the LORD has done

or for what his hands have made.

So he will tear them down,

and they will never be rebuilt!

6Praise the LORD!

For he has heard my cry for mercy.

7The LORD is my strength and shield.

I trust him with all my heart.

He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.

I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.

8The LORD gives his people strength.

He is a safe fortress for his anointed king.

9Save your people!

Bless Israel, your special possession.a

Lead them like a shepherd,

and carry them in your arms forever.