18But he clothed himself with cursing as with his garment,
         And it entered into his body like water
         And like oil into his bones.

19Let it be to him as a garment with which he covers himself,
         And for a belt with which he constantly girds himself.

20Let this be the reward of my accusers from the LORD,
         And of those who speak evil against my soul.

21But You, O GOD, the Lord, deal kindly with me for Your name’s sake;
         Because Your lovingkindness is good, deliver me;

22For I am afflicted and needy,
         And my heart is wounded within me.

23I am passing like a shadow when it lengthens;
         I am shaken off like the locust.

24My knees are weak from fasting,
         And my flesh has grown lean, without fatness.

25I also have become a reproach to them;
         When they see me, they wag their head.

26Help me, O LORD my God;
         Save me according to Your lovingkindness.

27And let them know that this is Your hand;
         You, LORD, have done it.

28Let them curse, but You bless;
         When they arise, they shall be ashamed,
         But Your servant shall be glad.

29Let my accusers be clothed with dishonor,
         And let them cover themselves with their own shame as with a robe.

30With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the LORD;
         And in the midst of many I will praise Him.

31For He stands at the right hand of the needy,
         To save him from those who judge his soul.

NASB ©1995