To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.

1Deliver and preserve me, O LORD, from the evil and violent men, 2Who devise evil plans in their heart; they continually stir up conflict. 3They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; a viper’s poison is under their lips. Selah. 4Keep me safe, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked, and protect me from the violent men, who have devised ways to trip me up. 5The arrogant have laid traps for me, and have spread their net for me. Selah. 6I said to the LORD, “You are my God. Hear the voice of my pleas for help, O LORD. 7O LORD, my LORD, the strength of my salvation, You have shielded my head in the day of battle. 8Do not grant the desires of the wicked, O LORD; do not further his wicked schemes; or they shall exalt themselves.” Selah. 9As for the head of those who surround me, may the mischief of their own lips engulf them. 10Let burning coals fall upon them; let them be cast into the fire, into deep pits, so that they never rise again. 11Do not let a slanderer become established in the earth. Let disaster pursue the violent man and overthrow him. 12I know that the LORD will maintain justice for the afflicted and the poor. 13Surely the righteous shall praise Your name; the upright shall dwell in Your presence.