^1. Psalm 56 For the director of music. To [the tune of] "A Dove on Distant Oaks." Of David. A [1] When the Philistines had seized him in Gath.

^1. Be merciful to me, O God, for men hotly pursue me; all day long they press their attack.

^2. My slanderers pursue me all day long; many are attacking me in their pride.

^3. When I am afraid, I will trust in you.

^4. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?

^5. All day long they twist my words; they are always plotting to harm me.

^6. They conspire, they lurk, they watch my steps, eager to take my life.

^7. On no account let them escape; in your anger, O God, bring down the nations.

^8. Record my lament; list my tears on your scroll [2] -- are they not in your record?

^9. Then my enemies will turn back when I call for help. By this I will know that God is for me.

^10. In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise--

^11. in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

^12. I am under vows to you, O God; I will present my thank offerings to you.

^13. For you have delivered me [4] from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life. [3]