57  For the musical director: a song[fn] by David written when he was fleeing from Sha’ul and hid in a cave. To be sung to the tune of ‘Don’t destroy’.

1 Be merciful to me, God, be merciful to me,

because I come to you to be safe until these troubles are over.

≈ I stay under your wings for protection until this destruction is over.

2 I will cry to the highest God—

to God, who ensures that I get justice.

3 He will send help from heaven and rescue me,

He’s angry with those who crush me. (Instrumental break.)

God will let me experience his loyal commitment and his faithfulness.

4 My life is among lions.

≈ I’m among those who are ready to devour me.

I’m among people whose teeth are spears and arrows,

≈ and whose tongues are sharp swords.

5 May you be lifted up, God, above the skies.

≈ May your splendour be seen by the whole world.

6 They spread out a net to catch my feet—I was distressed.

≈ They dug a pit in front of me. They themselves have fallen into it. (Instrumental break.)

7 My heart is fixed, God, I’ve made my decision.

I will sing, yes, I’ll sing praises.

8 Wake up, my honoured heart. Wake up, harp and other stringed instrument.

I’ll wake up the dawn.

9 My master, I’ll give thanks to you among the peoples.

≈ I’ll sing praises to you among the nations.

10 because your loyal commitment is great—reaching to the heavens,

≈ and your faithfulness to the clouds.

11 May you be lifted up, God, above the skies.

≈ May your splendour be seen by the whole world.