Psalm 31:9–16  from the Psalter

O Lord have mercy on me,
For anguish fills my life;
My eye, my soul, my body
Are all consumed with grief.
My life is drained by sorrow,
My years with sighing spent;
I’ve lost my strength by sinning;
My bones are weak and bent.

To all my foes a byword,
A dread to those near me,
A scorn to all my neighbors,
At sight of me they flee.
Like dead men I’m forgotten,
A broken jar thrown out.
I’ve slanders heard of many,
And fear is all about.

When foes conspire against me,
My murder meditate,
In You, O Lord, I’m trusting;
“You are my God,” I state.
My times are all in Your hand;
Free me from those who chase.
Your face shine on Your servant;
O save me in Your grace!