Psalms 61

1 To the chief Musician. On a stringed instrument. [A Psalm] of David. Hear, O God, my cry; attend unto my prayer.

God, listen to me, and answer my prayer [DOU]!

2 From the end of the earth will I call unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: thou wilt lead me on to a rock which is too high for me.

While I am discouraged and far from my home, I am calling out to you. Lead me to [the place that is like] a high rock [MET] on top of which I will be safe.

3 For thou hast been a refuge for me, a strong tower from before the enemy.

You have been my refuge; you have been [like] a strong tower [MET] [in which I am safe] from being attacked by my enemies.

4 I will sojourn in thy tent for ever; I will take refuge in the covert of thy wings. (Selah)

Allow me to live close to your temple all during my life [HYP]! Allow me to be safe [MET], [like a little bird is safe] under [its mother’s] wings.

5 For thou, O God, hast heard my vows; thou hast given [me] the inheritance of those that fear thy name.

God, you heard me when I solemnly promised [to give offerings to you]; you have given to me the blessings that belong to those who have an awesome respect for you [MTY].

6 Thou wilt add days to the days of the king: his years shall be as many generations.

[I am] the king [of Israel]; [please] allow me to live [and rule] for many years, and allow my descendants to rule [also].

7 He shall abide before God for ever: bestow loving-kindness and truth, that they may preserve him.

Allow us to rule forever while you observe us; watch over us while you faithfully love us and do for us what you promised.

8 So will I sing forth thy name for ever, performing my vows from day to day.

If you do that, I will always sing to praise you [MTY] while I offer to you each day the sacrifices that I promised to give to you.