1 Psalm 140 Prayer for Rescue For the choir director. A psalm of David. Rescue me, Lord , from evil men. Keep me safe from violent men2 who plan evil in their hearts. They stir up wars all day long.3 They make their tongues as sharp as a snake’s bite; viper’s venom is under their lips. Selah 4 Protect me, Lord , from the power of the wicked. Keep me safe from violent men who plan to make me stumble. Lit to trip up my steps 5 The proud hide a trap with ropes for me; they spread a net along the path and set snares for me. Selah 6 I say to the Lord , “You are my God.” Listen, Lord , to my cry for help.7 Lord , my Lord, my strong Savior, you shield my head on the day of battle.8 Lord , do not grant the desires of the wicked; do not let them achieve their goals. Otherwise, they will become proud. Selah 9 When those who surround me rise up, Lit Head of those who surround me may the trouble their lips cause overwhelm them.10 Let hot coals fall on them. Let them be thrown into the fire, into the abyss, never again to rise.11 Do not let a slanderer stay in the land. Let evil relentlessly Hb obscure hunt down a violent man.12 I Alt Hb tradition reads You know that the Lord upholds the just cause of the poor, justice for the needy.13 Surely the righteous will praise your name; the upright will live in your presence.