Psalm 140

New Coverdale Version

Deliver me, O Lord, from evildoers, * and preserve me from the violent,

Who imagine evil in their hearts * and stir up strife all the day long.

They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; * adders’ poison is under their lips.

Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the ungodly; * preserve me from the violent, who have purposed to overthrow my steps.

The proud have laid a snare for me and spread out a net with cords; * they have set traps in my way.

I said unto the Lord, “You are my God; * hear the voice of my prayers, O Lord.”

O Lord God, the strength of my salvation, * you have covered my head in the day of battle.

Let not the ungodly have their desire, O Lord; * let not their evil imagination prosper, lest they be too proud.

Let not those who encompass me lift up their heads; * let the evil of their own lips consume them.

Let hot burning coals fall upon them; * let them be cast into the fire and into the pit, that they may never rise up again.

A slanderer shall not prosper upon the earth; * evil shall hunt the wicked person to overthrow him.

I am sure that the Lord will avenge the poor * and maintain the cause of the helpless.

Surely, the righteous shall give thanks unto your Name, * and the just shall continue in your sight.

© Anglican Church in North America. Used by permission.