Therefore people fear him, for he does not regard all the wise in heart.”

Can you lead out the constellations in their seasons, or guide the Bear with its cubs?

It lives on a rock and spends the night there, on a rocky crag and a fortress.

“Indeed, I am completely unworthy – how could I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth to silence myself.

But you, Lord, are a shield that protects me; you are my glory and the one who restores me.

Your loyal followers trust in you, for you, Lord, do not abandon those who seek your help.

He waits in ambush near the villages; in hidden places he kills the innocent. His eyes look for some unfortunate victim.

He is like a lion that wants to tear its prey to bits, like a young lion crouching in hidden places.

He delivers me from my enemies; you snatch me away from those who attack me; you rescue me from violent men.

Like a bridegroom it emerges from its chamber; like a strong man it enjoys running its course.

Do not sweep me away with sinners, or execute me along with violent people,

Extend your loyal love to your faithful followers, and vindicate the morally upright!

Surely those favored by the Lord will possess the land, but those rejected by him will be wiped out.

For the music director; By David, a psalm. I relied completely on the Lord, and he turned toward me and heard my cry for help.

Even my close friend whom I trusted, he who shared meals with me, has turned against me.

I thirst for God, for the living God. I say, “When will I be able to go and appear in God’s presence?”

Consider its defenses! Walk through its fortresses, so you can tell the next generation about it!

Surely he rescues me from all trouble, and I triumph over my enemies.

Gilead belongs to me, as does Manasseh! Ephraim is my helmet, Judah my royal scepter.

Moab is my washbasin. I will make Edom serve me. I will shout in triumph over Philistia.”