1 H ear my voice, O God, in my complaint; guard and preserve my life from the terror of the enemy.

2 H ide me from the secret counsel and conspiracy of the ungodly, from the scheming of evildoers,

3 W ho whet their tongues like a sword, who aim venomous words like arrows,

4 W ho shoot from ambush at the blameless man; suddenly do they shoot at him, without self-reproach or fear.

5 T hey encourage themselves in an evil purpose, they talk of laying snares secretly; they say, Who will discover us ?

6 T hey think out acts of injustice and say, We have accomplished a well-devised thing! For the inward thought of each one and his heart is deep.

7 B ut God will shoot an unexpected arrow at them; and suddenly shall they be wounded.

8 A nd they will be made to stumble, their own tongues turning against them; all who gaze upon them will shake their heads and flee away.

9 A nd all men shall fear and be in awe; and they will declare the work of God, for they will wisely consider and acknowledge that it is His doing.

10 T he righteous shall be glad in the Lord and shall trust and take refuge in Him; and all the upright in heart shall glory and offer praise.