1 Save me, Lord, from evildoers;keep me safe from violent people.
2 They are always plotting evil,always stirring up quarrels.
3 Their tongues are like deadly snakes;their words are like a cobra's poison.
4 Protect me, Lord, from the power of the wicked;keep me safe from violent peoplewho plot my downfall.
5 The proud have set a trap for me;they have laid their snaresand along the path they have set traps to catch me.
6 I say to the Lord, “You are my God.”Hear my cry for help, Lord!
7 My Sovereign Lord, my strong defender,you have protected me in battle.
8 Lord, don't give the wicked what they want;don't let their plots succeed.
9 Don't let my enemies be victorious;make their threats against me fall back on them.
10 May red-hot coals fall on them;may they be thrown into a pit and never get out.
11 May those who accuse others falsely not succeed;may evil overtake violent people and destroy them.
12 Lord, I know that you defend the cause of the poorand the rights of the needy.
13 The righteous will praise you indeed;they will live in your presence.