Psalm 140
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.
Deliver me, O Lord, from evildoers, and preserve me from the violent,
Who imagine evil in their hearts and stir up strife all the day long.
They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adders’ poison is under their lips.
Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the ungodly; preserve me from the violent, who have purposed to overthrow my steps.
The proud have laid a snare for me and spread out a net with cords; they have set traps in my way.
I said unto the Lord, “You are my God; hear the voice of my prayers, O Lord.”
O Lord God, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle.
Let not the ungodly have their desire, O Lord; let not their evil imagination prosper, lest they be too proud.
Let not those who encompass me lift up their heads; let the evil of their own lips consume them.
Let hot burning coals fall upon them; let them be cast into the fire and into the pit, that they may never rise up again.
A slanderer shall not prosper upon the earth; evil shall hunt the wicked person to overthrow him.
I am sure that the Lord will avenge the poor and maintain the cause of the helpless.
Surely, the righteous shall give thanks unto your Name, and the just shall continue in your sight.
© Anglican Church in North America. Used by permission.