(A psalm by David for the music leader. Use stringed instruments.)
An Evening Prayer
1 You are my God and protector.
Please answer my prayer.
I was in terrible distress,
but you set me free.
Now have pity and listen
as I pray.
2 How long will you people
refuse to respect me?
You love foolish things,
and you run after
what is worthless.
3 The Lord has chosen
everyone who is faithful
to be his very own,
and he answers my prayers.
4 But each of you
had better tremble
and turn from your sins.
Silently search your heart
as you lie in bed.
5 Offer the proper sacrifices
and trust the Lord.
6 There are some who ask,
“Who will be good to us?”
Let your kindness, Lord,
shine brightly on us.
7 You brought me more happiness
than a rich harvest
of grain and grapes.
8 I can lie down
and sleep soundly
because you, Lord,
will keep me safe.
1 To him that excelleth on Neginoth. A Psalme of Dauid. Heare me when I call, O God of my righteousnes: thou hast set me at libertie, when I was in distresse: haue mercie vpon me and hearken vnto my prayer. 2 O ye sonnes of men, howe long will yee turne my glory into shame, louing vanitie, and seeking lyes? Selah. 3 For be ye sure that the Lord hath chosen to himselfe a godly man: the Lord will heare when I call vnto him. 4 Tremble, and sinne not: examine your owne heart vpon your bed, and be still. Selah. 5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousnes, and trust in the Lord. 6 Many say, Who will shewe vs any good? but Lord, lift vp the light of thy countenance vpon vs. 7 Thou hast giuen mee more ioye of heart, then they haue had, when their wheate and their wine did abound. 8 I will lay mee downe, and also sleepe in peace: for thou, Lord, onely makest me dwell in safetie.