Psalms 11

1 For the Leader. A Psalm of David. In the LORD have I taken refuge; how say ye to my soul: 'Flee thou! to your mountain, ye birds'?

For the leader. Of David. In the Lord I take refuge. How can you tell me to flee like a bird to the mountains?

2 For, lo, the wicked bend the bow, they have made ready their arrow upon the string, that they may shoot in darkness at the upright in heart.

‘See! The wicked are bending the bow, their arrow is set on the string, to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart.

3 When the foundations are destroyed, what hath the righteous wrought?

In this tearing down of foundations what good can a good person do?’

4 The LORD is in His holy temple, the LORD, His throne is in heaven; His eyes behold, His eyelids try, the children of men.

The Lord in his holy temple, the Lord in heaven, enthroned. His eyes watch the world, they see everyone.

5 The LORD trieth the righteous; but the wicked and him that loveth violence His soul hateth.

The Lord examines the righteous and wicked, and the lover of violence he hates.

6 Upon the wicked He will cause to rain coals; fire and brimstone and burning wind shall be the portion of their cup.

On the wicked he rains coals of fire and brimstone, and their drink will be scorching wind.

7 For the LORD is righteous, He loveth righteousness; the upright shall behold His face.

For the Lord is just, and justice he loves; so the upright will see his face.