1 [For the choir leader; a psalm by David.] Rescue me from evil people, O LORD. Keep me safe from violent people.

2 They plan evil things in their hearts. They start fights every day.

3 They make their tongues as sharp as a snake's [fang]. Their lips hide the venom of poisonous snakes. [Selah]

4 Protect me from the hands of wicked people, O LORD. Keep me safe from violent people. They try to trip me.

5 Arrogant people have laid a trap for me. They have spread out a net with ropes. They have set traps for me along the road. [Selah]

6 I said to the LORD, "You are my God." O LORD, open your ears to hear my plea for pity.

7 O LORD Almighty, the strong one who saves me, you have covered my head in the day of battle.

8 O LORD, do not give wicked people what they want. Do not let their evil plans succeed, [or] they will become arrogant. [Selah]

9 Let the heads of those who surround me be covered with their own threats.

10 Let burning coals fall on them. Let them be thrown into a pit, never to rise again.

11 Do not let slanderers prosper on earth. Let evil hunt down violent people with one blow after another.

12 I know that the LORD will defend the rights of those who are oppressed and the cause of those who are needy.

13 Indeed, righteous people will give thanks to your name. Decent people will live in your presence.