Psalms 5

To the director.[19] For the flutes.[20] A song of David.[21]

<1> Lord, listen to me

and understand what I am trying to say.

<2> My God and King,

listen to my prayer.

<3> Every morning, Lord, I lay my gifts before you

and look to you for help.

And every morning you hear my prayers.

<4> God, you don't want evil people near you.

They cannot stay in your presence.[22]

<5> Fools[23] cannot come near you.

You hate those who do evil.

<6> You destroy those who tell lies. Lord, you hate those who make secret plans to hurt others.

<7> But by your great mercy, I can enter your house.

I can worship in your holy Temple[24] with fear and respect for you.

<8> Lord, show me your right way of living,

and make it easy for me to follow.

People are looking for my weaknesses,

so show me how you want me to live.

<9> My enemies never tell the truth.

They only want to destroy people.

Their words come from mouths that are like open graves;

They use their lying tongues to deceive others.[25]

<10> Punish them, God!

Let them be caught in their own traps.

They have turned against you,

so punish them for their many crimes.

<11> But let those who trust in you be happy forever.

Protect and strengthen those who love your name.

<12> Lord, when you bless good people,

you surround them with your love like a large shield that protects them.