1To the Chief Musician; on stringed instruments. A Psalm of David. ANSWER ME when I call, O God of my righteousness (uprightness, justice, and right standing with You)! You have freed me when I was hemmed in and enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me and hear my prayer.
2O you sons of men, how long will you turn my honor and glory into shame? How long will you love vanity and futility and seek after lies? Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
3But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself [and given distinction to] him who is godly [the man of loving-kindness]. The Lord listens and heeds when I call to Him.
4Be angry [or stand in awe] and sin not; commune with your own hearts upon your beds and be silent (sorry for the things you say in your hearts). Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! [Eph. 4:26.]
5Offer just and right sacrifices; trust (lean on and be confident) in the Lord.
6Many say, Oh, that we might see some good! Lift up the light of Your countenance upon us, O Lord.
7You have put more joy and rejoicing in my heart than [they know] when their wheat and new wine have yielded abundantly.
8In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You, Lord, alone make me dwell in safety and confident trust.