Psalm 3

A psalm of David, regarding the time David fled from his son Absalom.

O Lord, I have so many enemies; so many are against me.

I am not afraid of ten thousand enemies who surround me on every side.

Arise, O Lord! Rescue me, my God! Slap all my enemies in the face! Shatter the teeth of the wicked!

Lead me in the right path, O Lord, or my enemies will conquer me. Make your way plain for me to follow.

My enemies cannot speak a truthful word. Their deepest desire is to destroy others. Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with flattery.

My vision is blurred by grief; my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies.

May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified. May they suddenly turn back in shame.

then let my enemies capture me. Let them trample me into the ground and drag my honor in the dust. Interlude

Arise, O Lord, in anger! Stand up against the fury of my enemies! Wake up, my God, and bring justice!

You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies and all who oppose you.

My enemies retreated; they staggered and died when you appeared.

Lord, have mercy on me. See how my enemies torment me. Snatch me back from the jaws of death.

Yet they succeed in everything they do. They do not see your punishment awaiting them. They sneer at all their enemies.

Don’t let my enemies gloat, saying, “We have defeated him!” Don’t let them rejoice at my downfall.

Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. By your mighty power you rescue those who seek refuge from their enemies.

Protect me from wicked people who attack me, from murderous enemies who surround me.

Psalm 18

For the choir director: A psalm of David, the servant of the Lord. He sang this song to the Lord on the day the Lord rescued him from all his enemies and from Saul. He sang:

I love you, Lord; you are my strength.

I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.

He shot his arrows and scattered his enemies; great bolts of lightning flashed, and they were confused.

He rescued me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me and were too strong for me.

I chased my enemies and caught them; I did not stop until they were conquered.

You have armed me with strength for the battle; you have subdued my enemies under my feet.

and rescues me from my enemies. You hold me safe beyond the reach of my enemies; you save me from violent opponents.

You will capture all your enemies. Your strong right hand will seize all who hate you.

My enemies surround me like a herd of bulls; fierce bulls of Bashan have hemmed me in!