For the choir director; set to Al-tashheth. A Mikhtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave.

1Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me,
         For my soul takes refuge in You;
         And in the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge
         Until destruction passes by.

2I will cry to God Most High,
         To God who accomplishes all things for me.

3He will send from heaven and save me;
         He reproaches him who tramples upon me.

4My soul is among lions;
         I must lie among those who breathe forth fire,
         Even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows
         And their tongue a sharp sword.

5Be exalted above the heavens, O God;
         Let Your glory be above all the earth.

6They have prepared a net for my steps;
         My soul is bowed down;
         They dug a pit before me;
         They themselves have fallen into the midst of it.

7My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast;
         I will sing, yes, I will sing praises!

8Awake, my glory!
         Awake, harp and lyre!
         I will awaken the dawn.

9I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the peoples;
         I will sing praises to You among the nations.

10For Your lovingkindness is great to the heavens
         And Your truth to the clouds.

11Be exalted above the heavens, O God;
         Let Your glory be above all the earth.

NASB ©1995