[1] To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. [2] Deliver me, O LORD, from evil
men; preserve me from violent men, [3] who plan evil things in their heart,
and stir up wars continually. [4] They make their tongue sharp as a
serpent's, and under their lips is the poison of vipers. [Selah] [5] Guard
me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who
have planned to trip up my feet. [6] Arrogant men have hidden a trap for
me, and with cords they have spread a net, by the wayside they have set
snares for me. [Selah] [7] I say to the LORD, Thou art my God; give ear to
the voice of my supplications, O LORD! [8] O LORD, my Lord, my strong
deliverer, thou hast covered my head in the day of battle. [9] Grant not, O
LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further his evil plot! [Selah] [10]
Those who surround me lift up their head, let the mischief of their lips
overwhelm them! [11] Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast
into pits, no more to rise! [12] Let not the slanderer be established in
the land; let evil hunt down the violent man speedily! [13] I know that the
LORD maintains the cause of the afflicted, and executes justice for the
needy. [ (Psalms 140:14) Surely the righteous shall give thanks to thy
name; the upright shall dwell in thy presence. ]