Psalms 17

Keep me as the apple of your eye

O Lord, hear my plea for justice. Listen to my cry for help. Pay attention to my prayer, for it comes from honest lips.a ²Declare me innocent, for you see those who do right. ³You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night. You have scrutinized me and found nothing wrong. I am determined not to sin in what I say.b

⁴I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people. ⁵My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you.c ⁶I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray.d

⁷Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. By your mighty power you rescue those who seek refuge from their enemies.e ⁸Guard me as you would guard your own eyes. Hide me in the shadow of your wings.f ⁹Protect me from wicked people who attack me, from murderous enemies who surround me.

¹⁰They are without pity. Listen to their boasting! ¹¹They track me down and surround me, watching for the chance to throw me to the ground. ¹²They are like hungry lions, eager to tear me apart— like young lions hiding in ambush.

¹³Arise, O Lord! Stand against them, and bring them to their knees! Rescue me from the wicked with your sword! ¹⁴By the power of your hand, O Lord, destroy those who look to this world for their reward. But satisfy the hunger of your treasured ones. May their children have plenty, leaving an inheritance for their descendants. ¹⁵Because I am righteous, I will see you. When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied.g