55:1 For the Chief Musician. On stringed instruments. A contemplation by David. Listen to my prayer, God. Dont hide yourself from my supplication.
55:2 Attend to me, and answer me. I am restless in my complaint, and moan,
55:3 Because of the voice of the enemy, Because of the oppression of the wicked. For they bring suffering on me. In anger they hold a grudge against me.
55:4 My heart is severely pained within me. The terrors of death have fallen on me.
55:5 Fearfulness and trembling have come on me. Horror has overwhelmed me.
55:6 I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! Then I would fly away, and be at rest.
55:7 Behold, then I would wander far off. I would lodge in the wilderness. Selah.
55:8 I would hurry to a shelter from the stormy wind and storm.
55:9 Confuse them, Lord, and confound their language, for I have seen violence and strife in the city.
55:10 Day and night they prowl around on its walls. Malice and abuse are also within her.
55:11 Destructive forces are within her. Threats and lies dont depart from her streets.
55:12 For it was not an enemy who insulted me, then I could have endured it. Neither was it he who hated me who raised himself up against me, then I would have hidden myself from him.
55:13 But it was you, a man like me, my companion, and my familiar friend.
55:14 We took sweet fellowship together. We walked in Gods house with company.
55:15 Let death come suddenly on them. Let them go down alive into Sheol. For wickedness is in their dwelling, in their midst.
55:16 As for me, I will call on God. Yahweh will save me.
55:17 Evening, morning, and at noon, I will cry out in distress. He will hear my voice.
55:18 He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me, although there are many who oppose me.
55:19 God, who is enthroned forever, will hear, and answer them. Selah. ?They never change, who dont fear God.
55:20 He raises his hands against his friends. He has violated his covenant.
55:21 His mouth was smooth as butter, but his heart was war. His words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords.
55:22 Cast your burden on Yahweh, and he will sustain you. He will never allow the righteous to be moved.
55:23 But you, God, will bring them down into the pit of destruction. Bloodthirsty and deceitful men shall not live out half their days, but I will trust in you.