Psalms 140

1 Save me, Lord, from evildoers; keep me safe from violent people.

2 They are always plotting evil, always stirring up quarrels.

3 Their tongues are like deadly snakes; their words are like a cobra's poison.

4 Protect me, Lord, from the power of the wicked; keep me safe from violent people who plot my downfall.

5 The proud have set a trap for me; they have laid their snares, and along the path they have set traps to catch me.

6 I say to the Lord, “You are my God.” Hear my cry for help, Lord!

7 My Sovereign Lord, my strong defender, you have protected me in battle.

8 Lord, don't give the wicked what they want; don't let their plots succeed.

9 Don't let my enemies be victorious; make their threats against me fall back on them.

10 May red-hot coals fall on them; may they be thrown into a pit and never get out.

11 May those who accuse others falsely not succeed; may evil overtake violent people and destroy them.

12 Lord, I know that you defend the cause of the poor and the rights of the needy.

13 The righteous will praise you indeed; they will live in your presence.