Chapter 17

  A Prayer. Of David.
Let my cause come to your ears, O Lord, give attention to my cry; give ear to my prayer which goes not out from false lips.  

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  Be my judge; for your eyes see what is right.  

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  You have put my heart to the test, searching me in the night; you have put me to the test and seen no evil purpose in me; I will keep my mouth from sin.  

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  As for the works of men, by the word of your lips I have kept myself from the ways of the violent.  

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  I have kept my feet in your ways, my steps have not been turned away.  

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  My cry has gone up to you, for you will give me an answer, O God: let your ear be turned to me, and give attention to my words.  

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  Make clear the wonder of your mercy, O saviour of those who put their faith in your right hand, from those who come out against them.  

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  Keep me as the light of your eyes, covering me with the shade of your wings,  

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  From the evil-doers who are violent to me, and from those who are round me, desiring my death.  

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  They are shut up in their fat: with their mouths they say words of pride.  

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  They have made a circle round our steps: their eyes are fixed on us, forcing us down to the earth;  

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  Like a lion desiring its food, and like a young lion waiting in secret places.  

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  Up! Lord, come out against him, make him low, with your sword be my saviour from the evil-doer.  

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  With your hand, O Lord, from men, even men of the world, whose heritage is in this life, and whom you make full with your secret wealth: they are full of children; after their death their offspring take the rest of their goods.  

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  As for me, I will see your face in righteousness: when I am awake it will be joy enough for me to see your form.  

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