Psalm 4
1 ANSWER ME when I call, O God of my righteousness (uprightness, justice, and right standing with You)! You have freed me when I was hemmed in and enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me and hear my prayer.2 O you sons of men, how long will you turn my honor and glory into shame? How long will you love vanity and futility and seek after lies? Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!3 But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself [and given distinction to] him who is godly [the man of loving-kindness]. The Lord listens and heeds when I call to Him.4 Be angry [or stand in awe] and sin not; commune with your own hearts upon your beds and be silent (sorry for the things you say in your hearts). Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! 5 Offer just and right sacrifices; trust (lean on and be confident) in the Lord.6 Many say, Oh, that we might see some good! Lift up the light of Your countenance upon us, O Lord.7 You have put more joy and rejoicing in my heart than [they know] when their wheat and new wine have yielded abundantly.8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You, Lord, alone make me dwell in safety and confident trust.
Psalm 4
For the music director, to be accompanied by stringed instruments; a psalm of David.
1 When I call out, answer me,
O God who vindicates me!
Though I am hemmed in, you will lead me into a wide, open place.
Have mercy on me and respond to my prayer!
2 You men, how long will you try to turn my honor into shame?
How long will you love what is worthless
and search for what is deceptive? (Selah)
3 Realize that the Lord shows the godly special favor;
the Lord responds when I cry out to him.
4 Tremble with fear and do not sin!
Meditate as you lie in bed, and repent of your ways! (Selah)
5 Offer the prescribed sacrifices
and trust in the Lord!
6 Many say, “Who can show us anything good?”
Smile upon us, Lord!
7 You make me happier
than those who have abundant grain and wine.
8 I will lie down and sleep peacefully,
for you, Lord, make me safe and secure.