Psalm 140

Prayer for Deliverance from Enemies

To the leader. A Psalm of David.

1 Deliver me, O Lord, from evildoers;

protect me from those who are violent,*

2 who plan evil things in their minds

and stir up wars continually.*

3 They make their tongue sharp as a snake’s,

and under their lips is the venom of vipers.   Selah*

4 Guard me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked;

protect me from the violent

who have planned my downfall.*

5 The arrogant have hidden a trap for me,

and with cords they have spread a net,i

along the road they have set snares for me.   Selah*

6 I say to the Lord, “You are my God;

give ear, O Lord, to the voice of my supplications.”*

7 O Lord, my Lord, my strong deliverer,

you have covered my head in the day of battle.*

8 Do not grant, O Lord, the desires of the wicked;

do not further their evil plot.j   Selah*

9 Those who surround me lift up their heads;k

let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them!*

10 Let burning coals fall on them!

Let them be flung into pits, no more to rise!*

11 Do not let the slanderer be established in the land;

let evil speedily hunt down the violent!*

12 I know that the Lord maintains the cause of the needy

and executes justice for the poor.*

13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name;

the upright shall live in your presence.*