1For the leader. Al tashheth. Of David. A michtam, when Saul sent men to watch his house in order to kill him. Save me, O God, from my enemies; secure me from my assailants.
2Save me from those who do wrong, save me from the bloodthirsty.
3For see! They lay ambush for me, strong men are banded against me not for sin or transgression of mine, for no guilt of mine, O Lord,
4they run and make ready. Awake! Come forth to meet me, and see!
5You, O Lord of hosts, God of Israel, awake! And punish the proud, every one; spare none of the traitors vile. Selah
6At evening they come, and, howling like dogs, make their round in the city.
7Look at their venomous mouths, tongues like swords, they think no one hears them.
8But you, Lord, laugh at them, you mock all the insolent.
9My strength, I will sing to you, for God is my sure retreat.
10My God with his love will meet me, and feast my eyes on my foes.
11Slay them not, lest my people forget, let your hosts keep them roaming and wandering.
12In their sinful speech snare them, O Lord; and may they be trapped in their pride, for the curses and lies that they utter.
13In your wrath make a clean end of them, that people, to the ends of the earth, may know that God rules in Jacob. Selah
14At evening they come, and, howling like dogs, make their round in the city.
15They roam about for a feast, and snarl, if they get not their fill.
16But I will sing of your might; I will ring out your love in the morning. For to me you have been a sure refuge, a retreat in the day of my trouble.
17My strength, I will sing praise to you, for God is my sure retreat, my faithful God.
