The poor can run to you because you are a fortress in times of trouble.

The poor and the homeless won't always be forgotten and without hope.

Proud and brutal people hunt down the poor. But let them get caught by their own evil plans!

They are hungry lions hiding in the bushes, hoping to catch some helpless passerby. They trap the poor in nets and drag them away.

But you see the trouble and the distress, and you will do something. The poor can count on you, and so can orphans.

But you, Lord, tell them, “I will do something! The poor are mistreated and helpless people moan. I'll rescue all who suffer.”

You may spoil the plans of the poor, but the Lord protects them.

The poor will eat and be full, and all who worship you will be thankful and live in hope.

Every bone in my body will shout: “No one is like the Lord!” You protect the helpless from those in power; you save the poor and needy from those who hurt them.

but the poor will take the land and enjoy a big harvest.

The wicked kill with swords and shoot arrows to murder the poor and the needy and all who do right.

It is better to live right and be poor than to be sinful and rich.

I am poor and needy, but, Lord God, you care about me, and you come to my rescue. Please hurry and help.

(A psalm by David for the music leader.)

A Prayer in Time of Sickness

You, Lord God, bless everyone who cares for the poor, and you rescue those people in times of trouble.

Listen, no matter who you are, rich or poor.

I am poor and needy, but you, the Lord God, care about me. You are the one who saves me. Please hurry and help!

Let him be honest and fair with all your people, especially the poor.

Let the king defend the poor, rescue the homeless, and crush everyone who hurts them.

Do this because the king rescues the homeless when they cry out, and he helps everyone who is poor and in need.

Don't disappoint those in need or make them turn from you, but help the poor and homeless to shout your praises.

Be fair to the poor and to orphans. Defend the helpless and everyone in need.

(A prayer by David.)

A Prayer for Help

Please listen, Lord, and answer my prayer! I am poor and helpless.

He was so cruel to the poor, homeless, and discouraged that they died young.

I am poor and helpless, and I have lost all hope.

They will always be remembered and greatly praised, because they were kind and freely gave to the poor.