1BE MERCIFUL {and} gracious to me, O God, be merciful {and} gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge {and} finds shelter {and} confidence in You; yes, in the shadow of Your wings will I take refuge {and} be confident until calamities {and} destructive storms are passed.
2I will cry to God Most High, Who performs on my behalf {and} rewards me [Who brings to pass His purposes for me and surely completes them]!
3He will send from heaven and save me from the slanders {and} reproaches of him who would trample me down {or} swallow me up, {and} He will put him to shame. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! God will send forth His mercy {and} loving-kindness {and} His truth {and} faithfulness.
4My life is among lions; I must lie among those who are aflame--the sons of men whose teeth are spears and arrows, their tongues sharp swords.
5Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let Your glory be over all the earth!
6They set a net for my steps; my very life was bowed down. They dug a pit in my way; into the midst of it they themselves have fallen. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
7My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is steadfast {and} confident! I will sing and make melody.
8Awake, my glory (my inner self); awake, harp and lyre! I will awake right early [I will awaken the dawn]!
9I will praise {and} give thanks to You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to You among the nations.
10For Your mercy {and} loving-kindness are great, reaching to the heavens, and Your truth {and} faithfulness to the clouds.
11Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be over all the earth.