For the music director; according to the yonath-elem-rekhoqim style; a prayer of David, written when the Philistines captured him in Gath. Have mercy on me, O God, for men are attacking me! All day long hostile enemies are tormenting me.

Those who anticipate my defeat attack me all day long. Indeed, many are fighting against me, O Exalted One.

When I am afraid, I trust in you.

In God– I boast in his promise– in God I trust, I am not afraid. What can mere men do to me?

All day long they cause me trouble; they make a habit of plotting my demise.

They stalk and lurk; they watch my every step, as they prepare to take my life.

Because they are bent on violence, do not let them escape! In your anger bring down the nations, O God!

You keep track of my misery. Put my tears in your leather container! Are they not recorded in your scroll?

My enemies will turn back when I cry out to you for help; I know that God is on my side.

In God– I boast in his promise– in the LORD– I boast in his promise–

in God I trust, I am not afraid. What can mere men do to me?

I am obligated to fulfill the vows I made to you, O God; I will give you the thank-offerings you deserve,

when you deliver my life from death. You keep my feet from stumbling, so that I might serve God as I enjoy life.