For the director of music. To [the tune of] "A Dove on Distant Oaks." Of David. A miktam.When the Philistines had seized him in Gath.
1Be merciful to me, O God, for men hotly pursue me; all day long they press their attack.
2My slanderers pursue me all day long; many are attacking me in their pride.
3When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
4In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?
5All day long they twist my words; they are always plotting to harm me.
6They conspire, they lurk, they watch my steps, eager to take my life.
7On no account let them escape; in your anger, O God, bring down the nations.
8Record my lament; list my tears on your scroll-- are they not in your record?[b]
9Then my enemies will turn back when I call for help. By this I will know that God is for me.
10In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise--
11in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?
12I am under vows to you, O God; I will present my thank offerings to you.
13For you have delivered mefrom death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life. [c][d]

Footnotes

a. Title: Probably a literary or musical term
b. [8]Orput my tears in your wineskin
c. [13]Ormy soul
d. [13]Orthe land of the living