Chapter 16

A just man’s prayer in tribulation against the malice of his enemy.

1. 1

   The prayer of David.

2. 2

   Hear, O Lord, my justice: attend to my supplication. Give ear unto my prayer, which proceedeth not from deceitful lips. Let my judgment come forth from thy countenance: let thy eyes behold the things that are equitable.

3. 3

   Thou hast proved my heart, and visited it by night, thou hast tried me by fire: and iniquity hath not been found in me.

4. 4

   That my mouth may not speak the works of men: for the sake of the words of thy lips, I have kept hard ways.

5. 5

   Perfect thou my goings in thy paths: that my footsteps be not moved.

6. 6

   I have cried to thee, for thou, O God, hast heard me: O incline thy ear unto me, and hear my words.

7. 7

   Show forth thy wonderful mercies; thou who savest them that trust in thee.

8. 8

   From them that resist thy right hand keep me, as the apple of thy eye. Protect me under the shadow of thy wings,

9. 9

   From the face of the wicked who have afflicted me. My enemies have surrounded my soul:

10. 10

    They have shut up their fat: their mouth hath spoken proudly.

11. 11

    They have cast me forth, and now they have surrounded me: they have set their eyes bowing down to the earth.

12. 12

    They have taken me, as a lion prepared for the prey; and as a young lion dwelling in secret places.

13. 13

    Arise, O Lord, disappoint him and supplant him; deliver my soul from the wicked one; thy sword

14. 14

    From the enemies of thy hand. O Lord, divide them from the few of the earth in their life: their belly is filled from thy hidden stores. They are full of children: and they have left to their little ones the rest of their substance.

15. 15

    But as for me, I will appear before thy sight in justice: I shall be satisfied when thy glory shall appear.