Psalms 5

Psalm 5#sn Psalm 5. Appealing to God’s justice and commitment to the godly, the psalmist asks the Lord to intervene and deliver him from evildoers.

For the music director, to be accompanied by wind instruments;#tn The meaning of the Hebrew word נְחִילוֹת (nÿkhilot), which occurs only here, is uncertain. Many relate the form to חָלִיל (khalil, “flute”). a psalm of David.

1Listen to what I say, Lord! Carefully consider my complaint!

2Pay attention to my cry for help, my king and my God, for I am praying to you!

3Lord, in the morning you will hear me; in the morning I will present my case to you and then wait expectantly for an answer.

4Certainly you are not a God who approves of evil; evil people cannot dwell with you.

5Arrogant people cannot stand in your presence; you hate all who behave wickedly.

6You destroy liars; the Lord despises violent and deceitful people.

7But as for me, because of your great faithfulness I will enter your house; I will bow down toward your holy temple as I worship you.

8Lord, lead me in your righteousness because of those who wait to ambush me, remove the obstacles in the way in which you are guiding me!

9For they do not speak the truth; their stomachs are like the place of destruction, their throats like an open grave, their tongues like a steep slope leading into it.

10Condemn them, O God! May their own schemes be their downfall! Drive them away because of their many acts of insurrection, for they have rebelled against you.

11But may all who take shelter in you be happy! May they continually shout for joy! Shelter them so that those who are loyal to you may rejoice!

12Certainly you reward the godly, Lord. Like a shield you protect them in your good favor.