142:1 A maskil of David. When he was in the cave. A prayer. I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift up my voice to the LORD for mercy.

142:2 I pour out my complaint before him; before him I tell my trouble.

142:3 When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you who know my way. In the path where I walk men have hidden a snare for me.

142:4 Look to my right and see; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life.

142:5 I cry to you, O LORD; I say, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living."

142:6 Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me.

142:7 Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.