Psalm 5

A Prayer for Guidance and Protection

For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by the flute.

1O Lord, hear me as I pray;

pay attention to my groaning.

2Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God,

for I pray to no one but you.

3Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord.

Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.

4O God, you take no pleasure in wickedness;

you cannot tolerate the sins of the wicked.

5Therefore, the proud may not stand in your presence,

for you hate all who do evil.

6You will destroy those who tell lies.

The Lord detests murderers and deceivers.

7Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house;

I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe.

8Lead me in the right path, O Lord,

or my enemies will conquer me.

Make your way plain for me to follow.

9My enemies cannot speak a truthful word.

Their deepest desire is to destroy others.

Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave.

Their tongues are filled with flattery.*5:9 Greek version reads with lies. Compare Rom 3:13.

10O God, declare them guilty.

Let them be caught in their own traps.

Drive them away because of their many sins,

for they have rebelled against you.

11But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;

let them sing joyful praises forever.

Spread your protection over them,

that all who love your name may be filled with joy.

12For you bless the godly, O Lord;

you surround them with your shield of love.