Psalm 143

Psalm 143 ¹ A psalm of David. LORD, hear my prayer. Listen to my cry for mercy. You are faithful and right. Come and help me.

² Don’t take me to court and judge me, because in your eyes no living person does what is right.

³ My enemies chase me. They crush me down to the ground. They make me live in the darkness like those who died long ago.

⁴ So I grow weak. Deep down inside me, I’m afraid.

⁵ I remember what happened long ago. I spend time thinking about all your acts. I consider what your hands have done.

⁶ I spread out my hands to you in prayer. I’m thirsty for you, just as dry ground is thirsty for rain.

⁷ LORD, answer me quickly. I’m growing weak. Don’t turn your face away from me, or I will be like those who go down into the grave.

⁸ In the morning let me hear about your faithful love, because I’ve put my trust in you. Show me the way I should live, because I trust you with my life.

⁹ LORD, save me from my enemies, because I go to you for safety.

¹⁰ Teach me to do what you want, because you are my God. May your good Spirit lead me on a level path.

¹¹ LORD, bring yourself honor by keeping me alive. Because you do what is right, get me out of trouble. ¹² Because your love is faithful, put an end to my enemies. Destroy all of them, because I serve you.