DELIVER me, O LORD from evil men; preserve me from violent men,

2 Who plan evil things in their hearts; they continually gather together for war.

3 They sharpened their tongues like a serpent; the poison of asps is under their lips.             Selah

4 Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have purposed to make my steps stumble.

5 The proud have hidden a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set traps for me. Selah

6 I said to the LORD: "You are my God; hear the voice of my supplication, O LORD.

7 O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You have covered my head in the day of battle.

8 Do not grant, O LORD, the desires of the wicked scheme, lest they be exalted.               Selah

9 "As for the head of those who sorround me, let the evil of their lips cover them;

10 Let burning coals fall upon them; let them be cast into the fire, into deep pits, that they rise not up again.

11 Let not a slanderer be established in the earth; let evil hunt the violent to overthrow him."

12 I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the poor.

13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your name; the upright shall dwell in Your presence. PSALM 140