Psalm 27

Marie J. Post, 1980

1. The LORD God is my light and my salvation-
   Whom shall I fear? He is my sheltering wall.
   When enemies arise and turn against me,
   They stumble on their slippery paths and fall.
   I will not fear though enemies assault;
   My confidence in God erases doubt.
   Though battles rage, the LORD will keep me near;
   I trust in him and I shall never fear.
   
2. One thing I ask my loving LORD to grant me:
   That I may dwell forever in his house,
   To gaze upon the beauty of the LORD God,
   To seek him in his holy dwelling place.
   For in the day of trouble and of strife,
   God in his shelter will preserve my life.
   High on a rock I’ll lift my voice and sing;
   With shouts of joy my praises I will bring.
   
3. Hear me, O LORD, when I in desperation
   Cry out for help; be merciful to me.
   LORD, hear my cry and heed my supplication;
   O answer, gracious LORD, this urgent plea.
   The LORD to me has spoken, “Seek my face.”
   My heart says, “Yes, LORD, I will seek your face.”
   Remember me, your servant; do not hide.
   Do not be angry, LORD; stay at my side.
   
4. Do not desert me, LORD of my salvation,
   Although my mother and my father do.
   Teach me your way of truth, O LORD, and lead me
   To walk the level paths I long to know.
   False witnesses arise to block my ways,
   But I am confident and trust your grace,
   That I will see the goodness of the LORD.
   Hope in the LORD! Be strong and trust his word.
   
5. “Seek ye My face.” O LORD, so Thou hast spoken,
   And in response my heart says unto Thee,
   “Thy count’nance do I seek in prayer unbroken.”
   Do not, O LORD, now hide Thy face from me.
   In anger turn Thy servant not away,
   Thou who hast ever been my help and stay.
   Forsake me not, for I on Thee rely;
   O God of my salvation, hear my cry!
   
6. My father and my mother may forsake me:
   The LORD is faithful and His help is sure.
   Teach me Thy way. O LORD and Savior, take me,
   Lead me on pathways level and secure,
   For evildoers lie in wait for me.
   Hand me not over to their tyranny.
   False witnesses against me still arise;
   They breathe out malice and abusive lies.
   
7. How I would have despaired in my affliction
   If I had not believed that in this life
   The LORD would show His goodness, His protection;
   I would have perished in my tears and strife.
   Wait for the LORD; be strong and undismayed.
   The LORD is faithful. Why then be afraid?
   Take courage, for His steadfast love is sure.
   Wait for the LORD; His mercy shall endure.