DELIVER me, O LORD from evil men ; preserve me from violent men,

2 Who plan evil thngs in their hearts ;  they continually gather together for war.

3 They sharpened their tongues like a serpent ; the poison of asps is under their lips. Selah

4 Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked ; preserve me from violent men, who have purposed to make my steps stumble.

5 The proud have hidden a snare for me, and cords ; they have spread a net by the wayside ; they have set traps for me. Selah

6 I said to the LORD: " You are my God ; hear the voice of my supplication, O LORD.

7 O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You have covered my head in the day of battle.

8 Do not grant , O LORD, the desires of the wicked scheme, lest they be exalted. Selah

9 "As for the head of those who sorround me, let the evil of their lips cover them ;

10 Let burning coals fall upon them ; let them be cast into the fire, into deep pits , that they may rise up again.

11 Let not a slanderer be established in the earth ; let evil hunt the violent to overthrow him. "

12 I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the poor.

13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your name; the upright shall dwell in Your presence. Psalm 140