Psalms of David - Modern Translation - Psalm 140

Deliver me, O Lord, from those who do harm;
protect me from those who stir up trouble.

They plot mischief in their hearts;
they stir up conflict every day.

Their tongues are sharp as a serpent’s;
poison drips from their lips.

Keep me safe, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked;
protect me from those who seek to bring me down.

The arrogant have set traps for me;
they have spread out nets along my path.

I say to the Lord, "You are my God."
Hear my cry for mercy, O Lord!

O Sovereign Lord, my strong deliverer,
You shield my head in the day of battle.

Do not grant the desires of the wicked, O Lord;
do not let their plans succeed.

Let the trouble they devise fall back on them;
let their own schemes be their undoing.

May burning coals fall upon them;
may they be cast down and rise no more.

Let not those who speak evil stand firm;
may misfortune hunt them down.

I know that the Lord upholds justice for the poor,
and defends the cause of the needy.

Surely the righteous will praise Your name,
and the upright will dwell in Your presence.