Psalm 17

1Yahweh, hear a righteous cause; attend to my cry, give ear to my prayer that does not come from deceitful lips.

2Let my judgment come forth from before you; let your eyes behold equity.

3You have tested my heart; you have searched me in the night; you have refined me, and you find nothing. I have resolved that my mouth will not transgress.

4Concerning men's deeds, by the word of your lips I have guarded myself from the destroyer's paths.

5Hold my steps in your paths, lest my feet slip.

6I have called to you, for you will answer me, God. Lean your ear toward me; hear my words.

7Show your wondrous mercies, you who deliver those seeking refuge by your right hand from those rising against them.

8Protect me like the pupil of your eye; hide me in the shade of your wings.

9from the wicked who destroy me, my enemies who surround my life.

10They close up their fat; with their mouth they speak haughtily.

11Now they surround our steps and close in on us; they set their eyes to cast us down to the earth.

12Like a lion eager to tear its prey, like a young lion lurking in secret places.

13Arise, Yahweh, meet him face-to-face; bring him down. Deliver my soul from the wicked with your sword.

14From men by your hand, Yahweh—from men of the world whose portion is in this life, with your hidden treasures you fill their bellies; they are full of sons and leave their surplus to their little children.

15I will behold your face in righteousness; I will be satisfied with your likeness when I awake.