Psalms 4
1 To the chief music-maker on corded instruments. A Psalm. Of David. Give answer to my cry, O God of my righteousness; make me free from my troubles; have mercy on me, and give ear to my prayer.
God, answer me when I pray to you. You are the one who vindicates me; Rescue me from things that distress me. Act mercifully toward me, and listen to me while I pray.
2 O you sons of men, how long will you go on turning my glory into shame? how long will you give your love to foolish things, going after what is false? (Selah)
How long will you people cause me to be disgraced instead of honoring me [RHQ]? You [people] love to falsely accuse me.
3 See how the Lord has made great his mercy for me; the Lord will give ear to my cry.
All those who are loyal to Yahweh, he has chosen them to belong to him. Yahweh listens to me when I pray to him.
4 Let there be fear in your hearts, and do no sin; have bitter feelings on your bed, but make no sound. (Selah)
When you people get angry, do not [allow your anger to control you and cause you to] sin. While you lie on your bed, silently examine what you are thinking.
5 Give the offerings of righteousness, and put your faith in the Lord.
Also, offer to Yahweh the proper sacrifices, and continue trusting in him.
6 There are numbers who say, Who will do us any good? the light of his face has gone from us.
Some people ask, “Who will allow good things to happen to us?” [But I say], “Yahweh, continue to act kindly toward us.
7 Lord, you have put joy in my heart, more than they have when their grain and their wine are increased.
You have made me very happy; I am happier than people who have harvested a great amount of grain and grapes.
8 I will take my rest on my bed in peace, because you only, Lord, keep me safe.
I can lie down [at night] and sleep soundly because [I know that] you, Yahweh, will keep me safe.”
