Psalm 143

Dewey Westra, 1967; rev.

1. Hear Thou, O LORD, my supplication,
   My fervent plea for Thy salvation;
   LORD, answer me with truth and right.
   Withhold from me Thy condemnation,
   For none is perfect in Thy sight.
   
2. My bitter foe has long pursued me;
   Unto the ground he has subdued me,
   And into darkness I’ve been led;
   He made me sit where light eludes me,
   Where I am left like those long dead.
   
3. My soul is drained of expectation;
   My heart is numb with consternation.
   When I remember former days
   I muse on all Thy preservation
   And ponder all Thy works and ways.
   
4. LORD, see my hands to Thee extending,
   My soul athirst for Thy defending.
   My spirit faints. O haste to save
   Lest I become as those descending
   Down to the darkness of the grave.
   
5. At dawn reveal to me Thy goodness,
   For I confide in Thee, my fortress.
   Cause me to see and know in full
   The way in which I should make progress,
   For, LORD, to Thee I lift my soul.
   
6. From all my foes me now deliver,
   For I have fled to Thee for cover.
   Teach me Thy will, I Thee entreat,
   For Thou hast been my God forever.
   Let Thy good Spirit guide my feet.
   
7. Revive me, LORD, to Thy Name’s glory;
   In righteousness relieve my worry;
   In steadfast love, as with a sword
   Cut off my enemies before me,
   For I am still Thy servant, LORD.