The Prayer of an Innocent Person (PSA 17:1-15)

[17:1] Listen, O Lord, to my plea for justice; pay attention to my cry for help! Listen to my honest prayer.

[17:2] You will judge in my favor, because you know what is right.

[17:3] You know my heart. You have come to me at night; you have examined me completely and found no evil desire in me. I speak no evil,

[17:4] as others do; I have obeyed your command and have not followed paths of violence.

[17:5] I have always walked in your way and have never strayed from it.

[17:6] I pray to you, O God, because you answer me; so turn to me and listen to my words.

[17:7] Reveal your wonderful love and save me; at your side I am safe from my enemies.

[17:8] Protect me as you would your very eyes; hide me in the shadow of your wings

[17:9] from the attacks of the wicked. Deadly enemies surround me;

[17:10] they have no pity and speak proudly.

[17:11] They are around me now, wherever I turn, watching for a chance to pull me down.

[17:12] They are like lions, waiting for me, wanting to tear me to pieces.

[17:13] Come, Lord! Oppose my enemies and defeat them! Save me from the wicked by your sword;

[17:14] save me from those who in this life have all they want. Punish them with the sufferings you have stored up for them; may there be enough for their children and some left over for their children's children!

[17:15] But I will see you, because I have done no wrong; and when I awake, your presence will fill me with joy.