56:1 For the director of music. To the tune of"A Dove on Distant Oaks." Of David. A miktam. When the Philistines had seized him in Gath. Be merciful to me, O God, for men hotly pursue me; all day long they press their attack.

56:2 My slanderers pursue me all day long; many are attacking me in their pride.

56:3 When I am afraid, I will trust in you.

56:4 In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?

56:5 All day long they twist my words; they are always plotting to harm me.

56:6 They conspire, they lurk, they watch my steps, eager to take my life.

56:7 On no account let them escape; in your anger, O God, bring down the nations.

56:8 Record my lament; list my tears on your scroll--are they not in your record?

56:9 Then my enemies will turn back when I call for help. By this I will know that God is for me.

56:10 In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise--

56:11 in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

56:12 I am under vows to you, O God; I will present my thank offerings to you.

56:13 For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.