Psalm 143

A Cry for Help

A psalm of David.

Lord, hear my prayer.

In your faithfulness listen to my plea,

and in your righteousness answer me.a

2Do not bring your servant into judgment,a

for no one alive is righteous in your sight.b

3For the enemy has pursued me,

crushing me to the ground,

making me live in darkness

like those long dead.a

4My spirit is weak within me;

my heart is overcome with dismay.a

5I remember the days of old;

I meditate on all you have done;

I reflect on the work of your hands.a

6I spread out my hands to you;

I am like parched land before you.a

Selah

7Answer me quickly, Lord;

my spirit fails.a

Don’t hide your face from me,

or I will be like those

going down to the Pit.b

8Let me experience

your faithful love in the morning,

for I trust in you.a

Reveal to me the way I should go

because I appeal to you.b

9Rescue me from my enemies, Lord;

I come to you for protection.a a

10Teach me to do your will,

for you are my God.a

May your gracious Spirit

lead me on level ground.b

11For your name’s sake, Lord,

let me live.

In your righteousness deliver me from trouble,a

12and in your faithful love destroy my enemies.

Wipe out all those who attack me,

for I am your servant.a