Psalm 28

Psalm 28

A psalm of David.

1 I pray to you, O LORD, my rock.
Do not turn a deaf ear to me.
For if you are silent,
I might as well give up and die.2 Listen to my prayer for mercy
as I cry out to you for help,
as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary.3 Do not drag me away with the wicked—
with those who do evil—
those who speak friendly words to their neighbors
while planning evil in their hearts.4 Give them the punishment they so richly deserve!
Measure it out in proportion to their wickedness.
Pay them back for all their evil deeds!
Give them a taste of what they have done to others.5 They care nothing for what the LORD has done
or for what his hands have made.
So he will tear them down,
and they will never be rebuilt!6 Praise the LORD!
For he has heard my cry for mercy.7 The LORD is my strength and shield.
I trust him with all my heart.
He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.
I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.8 The LORD gives his people strength.
He is a safe fortress for his anointed king.9 Save your people!
Bless Israel, your special possession.t
Lead them like a shepherd,
and carry them in your arms forever.

PSALMS 28

A Prayer for Help

1 Only you, [Lord],
are a mighty rock!t
Don't refuse to help me
when I pray.
If you don't answer me,
I will soon be dead.

2 Please listen to my prayer
and my cry for help,
as I lift my hands
toward your holy temple.

3 Don't drag me away, [Lord],
with those cruel people,
who speak kind words,
while planning trouble.

4  t Treat them as they deserve!
Punish them for their sins.

5 They don't pay any attention
to your wonderful deeds.
Now you will destroy them
and leave them in ruin.

6 I praise you, [Lord],
for answering my prayers.

7 You are my strong shield,
and I trust you completely.
You have helped me,
and I will celebrate
and thank you in song.

8 You give strength
to your people, [Lord],
and you save and protect
your chosen ones.

9 Come save us and bless us.
Be our shepherd and always
carry us in your arms.