Psalm 56

Psalm 56

1. For the choir director: A psalm[a] of David, regarding the time the Philistines seized him in Gath. To be sung to the tune “Dove on Distant Oaks.” 1 1 O God, have mercy on me, 1 for people are hounding me. 1 My foes attack me all day long.

2. I am constantly hounded by those who slander me, 2 and many are boldly attacking me.

3. But when I am afraid, 3 I will put my trust in you.

4. I praise God for what he has promised. 4 I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? 4 What can mere mortals do to me?

5. They are always twisting what I say; 5 they spend their days plotting to harm me.

6. They come together to spy on me— 6 watching my every step, eager to kill me.

7. Don’t let them get away with their wickedness; 7 in your anger, O God, bring them down.

8. You keep track of all my sorrows.[b] 8 You have collected all my tears in your bottle. 8 You have recorded each one in your book.

9. My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help. 9 This I know: God is on my side!

10. I praise God for what he has promised; 10 yes, I praise the Lord for what he has promised.

11. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? 11 What can mere mortals do to me?

12. I will fulfill my vows to you, O God, 12 and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help.

13. For you have rescued me from death; 13 you have kept my feet from slipping. 13 So now I can walk in your presence, O God, 13 in your life-giving light.

Footnotes:
a. 56:Title: Hebrew miktam. This may be a literary or musical term.
b. 56:8: Or my wanderings.