Psalm 64

Contemporary English Version

(A psalm by David for the music leader.)

Celebrate because of the Lord

¹Listen to my concerns, God,
and protect me
    from my enemies' threats.
²Keep me safe from secret plots
    of corrupt and evil gangs.
³Their words cut like swords,
and their cruel remarks
    sting like sharp arrows.
⁴They fearlessly ambush
    and shoot innocent people.

⁵They are determined to do evil,
    and they tell themselves,
“Let's set traps!
    No one can see us.”^[a]
⁶They make evil plans and say,
“We'll commit a perfect crime.
    No one knows our thoughts.”^[b]

⁷But God will shoot his arrows
    and quickly wound them.
⁸They will be destroyed
    by their own words,
and everyone who sees them
    will tremble with fear.^[c]
⁹They will be afraid and say,
“Look at what God has done
    and keep it all in mind.”