17:1 A prayer of David. Hear, O LORD, my righteous plea; listen to my cry. Give ear to my prayer--it does not rise from deceitful lips.

17:2 May my vindication come from you; may your eyes see what is right.

17:3 Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.

17:4 As for the deeds of men--by the word of your lips I have kept myself from the ways of the violent.

17:5 My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not slipped.

17:6 I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer.

17:7 Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes.

17:8 Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings

17:9 from the wicked who assail me, from my mortal enemies who surround me.

17:10 They close up their callous hearts, and their mouths speak with arrogance.

17:11 They have tracked me down, they now surround me, with eyes alert, to throw me to the ground.

17:12 They are like a lion hungry for prey, like a great lion crouching in cover.

17:13 Rise up, O LORD, confront them, bring them down; rescue me from the wicked by your sword.

17:14 O LORD, by your hand save me from such men, from men of this world whose reward is in this life. You still the hunger of those you cherish; their sons have plenty, and they store up wealth for their children.

17:15 And I--in righteousness I will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.