Psalm Thirty One, verses 1-13

A Psalm of David and of Leigh

For the Music Director and Worship Leader

Lord, I have placed myself in Your hands; deliver me in Your righteousness and do not let me come to shame.

Quickly turn Your ear to hear my cries. Just as quickly come to my rescue; for You are my Rock, the Fortress where I take refuge. In You, I am ALWAYS safe. Because You are my safety, You guide me securely. You keep me from the snares the enemy has laid in my path.

Lord, I place my spirit into Your hands; deliver me, O faithful one.

As much as I love and trust You, Lord, I have hated those who cling to worthless idols; those things that keep them from seeking You. In Your love I am glad - ever rejoicing - for you saw my all of my pain and torment. You knew the deep anguish of my soul. But You did not turn me over to my enemies; instead You in a spacious meadow with plenty of room to breathe. 

But I am in trouble again, Lord, so once again I ask for Your mercy to be poured out on me. My mind - my very soul - is overflowing with grief, yes I bear it in spirit and body also.

My life is draining away with this deep anguish of the soul. My years are depleted, length of days shortened, even my physical strength is gone, giving way to weakness deep in my bones.

Because of this grief, I taunt my enemies; yes and cause my friends and neighbors to flee before me in fear. I may as well be dead, for all have forsaken me in my sorrow.  I hear them whispering from the shadows, "All around you is terror and torment." They plot my demise, making plans for how and where to end my life ...

~*~