For I envied those who are proud, as I observed the prosperity of the wicked.

If I had publicized these thoughts, I would have betrayed your loyal followers.

For I say, “Loyal love is permanently established; in the skies you set up your faithfulness.”

it will remain stable, like the moon, his throne will endure like the skies.” (Selah)

Who will rise up to defend me against the wicked? Who will stand up for me against the evildoers?

Each morning I will destroy all the wicked people in the land, and remove all evildoers from the city of the Lord.

Remember me, O Lord, when you show favor to your people! Pay attention to me, when you deliver,

God has spoken in his sanctuary: “I will triumph! I will parcel out Shechem, the valley of Succoth I will measure off.

I am fading away like a shadow at the end of the day; I am shaken off like a locust.

They curse, but you will bless. When they attack, they will be humiliated, but your servant will rejoice.

The ropes of death tightened around me, the snares of Sheol confronted me. I was confronted with trouble and sorrow.

I will present a thank offering to you, and call on the name of the Lord.

Help me to understand what your precepts mean! Then I can meditate on your marvelous teachings.

Arrogant people do nothing but scoff at me. Yet I do not turn aside from your law.

I am a friend to all your loyal followers, and to those who keep your precepts.

How long must your servant endure this? When will you judge those who pursue me?

You remove all the wicked of the earth like slag. Therefore I love your rules.

For this reason I carefully follow all your precepts. I hate all deceitful actions.

If only you would kill the wicked, O God! Get away from me, you violent men!

See if there is any idolatrous tendency in me, and lead me in the reliable ancient path!