Psalm XVII.
1
Attend my cry, O righteous God,
Which in sincerity
I make to thee, and judge my cause
With truth and equity.
2
Thou art the searcher of the heart,
And therefore I intend,
That neither in my secret thoughts,
Nor words I will offend.
3
And as for Men's pernicious ways,
Thy word has been my guide;
Preserve me, Lord, and keep me so,
My steps may never slide.
4
I oft have called upon thee,
Whose promise is to hear:
Perform it, Lord, and to my speech
In mercy lend an ear.
5
The wonders of thy mercy shew,
Who sav'st by thy right hand
All those, that put their trust in thee,
From such as them withstand.
6
Keep as the apple of thine eye,
With greatest tenderness,
And hide me underneath thy wings,
From them that me oppress.
7
For, Lord, my deadly enemies,
That compass me about,
Are such as wallow in their wealth,
Whose words are proud and stout.
8
They compassed my steps about,
And did observe my way,
Like Lions lurking in their dens,
They watch to seize their prey.
9
Rise, Lord, defeat, and cast them down,
Who thus my life pursue;
Draw forth thy sword and save my life
From that ungodly crew.
10
From those that have their portion here,
Who Wealth and Children have:
And if they can but leave them rich,
No greater Blessing crave.
11
But let my Portion ever be
Thy Favour and thy Grace;
That with the just I may awake,
And ever see thy face.
