3-6 The enemy hunted me down;
    he kicked me and stomped me within an inch of my life.
He put me in a black hole,
    buried me like a corpse in that dungeon.
I sat there in despair, my spirit draining away,
    my heart heavy, like lead.
I remembered the old days,
    went over all you’ve done, pondered the ways you’ve worked,
Stretched out my hands to you,
    as thirsty for you as a desert thirsty for rain.

7-10 Hurry with your answer, God!
    I’m nearly at the end of my rope.
Don’t turn away; don’t ignore me!
    That would be certain death.
If you wake me each morning with the sound of your loving voice,
    I’ll go to sleep each night trusting in you.
Point out the road I must travel;
    I’m all ears, all eyes before you.
Save me from my enemies, God
    you’re my only hope!
Teach me how to live to please you,
    because you’re my God.
Lead me by your blessed Spirit
    into cleared and level pastureland.

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I spread out my hands(A) to you;
    I thirst for you like a parched land.[a]

Answer me quickly,(B) Lord;
    my spirit fails.(C)
Do not hide your face(D) from me
    or I will be like those who go down to the pit.
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,(E)
    for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way(F) I should go,
    for to you I entrust my life.(G)

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Footnotes

  1. Psalm 143:6 The Hebrew has Selah (a word of uncertain meaning) here.