Psalms 31:1-16

I come to you, LORD, for protection; never let me be defeated. You are a righteous God; save me, I pray! Hear me! Save me now! Be my refuge to protect me; my defence to save me. You are my refuge and defence; guide me and lead me as you have promised. Keep me safe from the trap that has been set for me; shelter me from danger. I place myself in your care. You will save me, LORD; you are a faithful God. You hate those who worship false gods, but I trust in you. I will be glad and rejoice because of your constant love. You see my suffering; you know my trouble. You have not let my enemies capture me; you have given me freedom to go where I wish. Be merciful to me, LORD, for I am in trouble; my eyes are tired from so much crying; I am completely worn out. I am exhausted by sorrow, and weeping has shortened my life. I am weak from all my troubles; even my bones are wasting away. All my enemies, and especially my neighbours, treat me with contempt; those who know me are afraid of me; when they see me in the street, they run away. Everyone has forgotten me, as though I were dead; I am like something thrown away. I hear many enemies whispering; terror is all round me. They are making plans against me, plotting to kill me. But my trust is in you, O LORD; you are my God. I am always in your care; save me from my enemies, from those who persecute me. Look on your servant with kindness; save me in your constant love.