1 [By David.] The LORD is my light and my salvation. Who is there to fear? The LORD is my life's fortress. Who is there to be afraid of?

2 Evildoers closed in on me to tear me to pieces. My opponents and enemies stumbled and fell.

3 Even though an army sets up camp against me, my heart will not be afraid. Even though a war breaks out against me, I will still have confidence [in the LORD].

4 I have asked one thing from the LORD. This I will seek: to remain in the LORD's house all the days of my life in order to gaze at the LORD's beauty and to search for an answer in his temple.

5 He hides me in his shelter when there is trouble. He keeps me hidden in his tent. He sets me high on a rock.

6 Now my head will be raised above my enemies who surround me. I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy in his tent. I will sing and make music to praise the LORD.

7 Hear, O LORD, when I cry aloud. Have pity on me, and answer me.

8 [When you said,] "Seek my face," my heart said to you, "O LORD, I will seek your face."

9 Do not hide your face from me. Do not angrily turn me away. You have been my help. Do not leave me! Do not abandon me, O God, my savior!

10 Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will take care of me.

11 Teach me your way, O LORD. Lead me on a level path because I have enemies who spy on me.

12 Do not surrender me to the will of my opponents. False witnesses have risen against me. They breathe out violence.

13 I believe that I will see the goodness of the LORD in this world of the living.

14 Wait with hope for the LORD. Be strong, and let your heart be courageous. Yes, wait with hope for the LORD.