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(A psalm by David for the music leader. Use with stringed instruments.)

Under the Protection of God

Please listen, God,
    and answer my prayer!
I feel hopeless,
and I cry out to you
    from a faraway land.

Lead me to the mighty rock[a]
    high above me.
You are a strong tower,
where I am safe
    from my enemies.

Let me live with you forever
and find protection
    under your wings, my God.
You heard my promises,
    and you have blessed me,
just as you bless everyone
    who worships you.

Let the king have a long
    and healthy life.
May he always rule
    with you, God, at his side;
may your love and loyalty
    watch over him.

I will sing your praises
forever, God, and will always
    keep my promises.

Footnotes

  1. 61.2 mighty rock: See the note at 18.2.

Psalm 61[a]

For the director of music. With stringed instruments. Of David.

Hear my cry, O God;(A)
    listen to my prayer.(B)

From the ends of the earth I call to you,
    I call as my heart grows faint;(C)
    lead me to the rock(D) that is higher than I.
For you have been my refuge,(E)
    a strong tower against the foe.(F)

I long to dwell(G) in your tent forever
    and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.[b](H)
For you, God, have heard my vows;(I)
    you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.(J)

Increase the days of the king’s life,(K)
    his years for many generations.(L)
May he be enthroned in God’s presence forever;(M)
    appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him.(N)

Then I will ever sing in praise of your name(O)
    and fulfill my vows day after day.(P)

Footnotes

  1. Psalm 61:1 In Hebrew texts 61:1-8 is numbered 61:2-9.
  2. Psalm 61:4 The Hebrew has Selah (a word of uncertain meaning) here.