HEAR a just cause, O LORD, attend to my cry; give ear to my prayer which is not from decietful lips.

2 Let my vindication come from Your presence; let Your eyes look on the things that are upright.

3 You have tested my heart; You have visited me in the night; You have tried me and have found nothing; I have purpose that my mouth shall not transgress.

4 Concerning the works of men, by the word of Your lips, I have kept away from the paths of the destroyer.

5 Uphold my steps in Your paths, that my footsteps may not slip.

6 I have called upon You, for You will hear me, O God; incline Your ear to me, and hear my speech.

7 Show Your marvelous loving kindness by Your right hand, O You who save those who trust in You from those who rise up against them.

8 Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under the shadow of Your wings,

9 From the wicked who oppress me, from my deadly enemies who surround me.

10 They have closed up their fat heart; with their mouths they speak proudly.

11 They have now surrounded us in our steps; they have set their eyes, crouching down to the earth,

12 As a lion is eager to tear his prey, and like a young lion lurking in secret places.

13 Arise, O LORD, confront him, cast him down; deliver my life from the wicked with Your sword,

14 With Your hand from men, O LORD, from men of the world who have their portion in this life, and whose belly You fill with Your hidden treasure. They are satisfied with children, and leave the rest of their possession for their babes.

15 As for me, I will see Your face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness. PSALM 17