Psalm 17

Refrain:    Deliver me, O Lord, by your hand.

1    Hear my just cause, O Lord; consider my complaint;  

listen to my prayer, which comes not from lying lips.

2    Let my vindication come forth from your presence;  

let your eyes behold what is right.

3    Weigh my heart, examine me by night,  

refine me, and you will find no impurity in me. [R]

4    My mouth does not trespass for earthly rewards;  

I have heeded the words of your lips.

5    My footsteps hold fast in the ways of your commandments;  

my feet have not stumbled in your paths. [R]

6    I call upon you, O God, for you will answer me;  

incline your ear to me, and listen to my words.

7    Show me your marvellous loving-kindness,  

O Saviour of those who take refuge at your right hand

from those who rise up against them.

8    Keep me as the apple of your eye;  

hide me under the shadow of your wings,

9    From the wicked who assault me,  

from my enemies who surround me to take away my life. [R]

10  They have closed their heart to pity  

and their mouth speaks proud things.

11  They press me hard, they surround me on every side,  

watching how they may cast me to the ground,

12  Like a lion that is greedy for its prey,  

like a young lion lurking in secret places. [R]

13  Arise, Lord; confront them and cast them down;  

deliver me from the wicked by your sword.

14  Deliver me, O Lord, by your hand  

from those whose portion in life is unending,

15  Whose bellies you fill with your treasure,  

who are well supplied with children

and leave their wealth to their little ones.

16  As for me, I shall see your face in righteousness;  

when I awake and behold your likeness, I shall be satisfied.

Refrain:    Deliver me, O Lord, by your hand.

Generous Lord,

deliver us from all envious thoughts,

and when we are tempted by the desire for wealth,

let us see your face;

for your abundance is enough to clothe our lack;

through Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

Common Worship: Daily Prayer, material from which is included here,
is copyright © The Archbishops' Council 2005 and published by Church House Publishing.

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