Psalm 143

James Vanden Bosch, 1981

1. LORD, hear my prayer, my supplication;
   In truth and righteousness, now answer.
   But do not judge your servant, LORD,
   For who could stand before your judgment?
   No one is righteous in your sight.
   
2. O LORD, the enemy pursues me;
   My life lies broken where I’ve fallen.
   I know the darkness of the grave.
   Therefore my spirit faints within me;
   My heart within me is dismayed.
   
3. When I remember days of old, LORD,
   I meditate on all your doings,
   On all the works your hands have wrought.
   I stretch my hands out to implore you:
   My soul thirsts like a desert land.
   
4. Make haste, O LORD, and give your answer.
   My spirit fails; do not forsake me,
   Or I will be like those who die.
   Let morning bring your lovingkindness,
   For I have put my trust in you.
   
5. Teach me to walk where you have led me,
   For I lay all my cares before you.
   Deliver me from all my foes,
   For I have fled to you for refuge.
   You are my God: teach me your will.
   
6. May your good Spirit lead me safely.
   For your name’s sake, O LORD, protect me;
   In righteousness preserve my life.
   In love destroy all those who hate me:
   I am a servant of the LORD.