Psalm 27

Psalm 27

A psalm of David.

1 The LORD is my light and my salvation—
so why should I be afraid?
The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger,
so why should I tremble?2 When evil people come to devour me,
when my enemies and foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.3 Though a mighty army surrounds me,
my heart will not be afraid.
Even if I am attacked,
I will remain confident.4 The one thing I ask of the LORD—
the thing I seek most—
is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,
delighting in the LORD’s perfections
and meditating in his Temple.5 For he will conceal me there when troubles come;
he will hide me in his sanctuary.
He will place me out of reach on a high rock.6 Then I will hold my head high
above my enemies who surround me.
At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy,
singing and praising the LORD with music.7 Hear me as I pray, O LORD.
Be merciful and answer me!8 My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.”
And my heart responds, “LORD, I am coming.”9 Do not turn your back on me.
Do not reject your servant in anger.
You have always been my helper.
Don’t leave me now; don’t abandon me,
O God of my salvation!10 Even if my father and mother abandon me,
the LORD will hold me close.11 Teach me how to live, O LORD.
Lead me along the right path,
for my enemies are waiting for me.12 Do not let me fall into their hands.
For they accuse me of things I’ve never done;
with every breath they threaten me with violence.13 Yet I am confident I will see the LORD’s goodness
while I am here in the land of the living.14 Wait patiently for the LORD.
Be brave and courageous.
Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.

PSALMS 27

A Prayer of Praise

1 You, [Lord], are the light
that keeps me safe.
I am not afraid of anyone.
You protect me,
and I have no fears.

2 Brutal people may attack
and try to kill me,
but they will stumble.
Fierce enemies may attack,
but they will fall.

3 Armies may surround me,
but I won't be afraid;
war may break out,
but I will trust you.

4 I ask only one thing, [Lord]:
Let me live in your house
every day of my life
to see how wonderful you are
and to pray in your temple.

5 In times of trouble, [Lord],
you will protect me.
You will hide me in your tent
and keep me safe
on top of a mighty rock.t

6 You will let me defeat
all my enemies.
Then I will celebrate,
as I enter your tent
with animal sacrifices
and songs of praise.

7 Please listen when I pray!
Have pity. Answer my prayer.

8 My heart tells me to pray.
I am eager to see your face,

9 so don't hide from me.
I am your servant, [Lord],
and you have helped me.
Don't turn from me in anger.
You alone keep me safe.
Don't reject or desert me.

10 Even if my father and mother
should desert me,
you will take care of me.

11 Teach me to follow, [Lord],
and lead me on the right path
because of my enemies.

12 Don't let them do to me
what they want.
People tell lies about me
and make violent threats,

13 but I know I will live
to see how kind you are.

14 Trust the [Lord]!
Be brave and strong
and trust the [Lord].