Psalms 4
1 “For the leader of the music; to be accompanied with stringed instruments. A psalm of David.” Hear me, when I call, O God of my righteousness! Thou hast helped me, when I was in trouble, —Have pity upon me, and hear 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 How long, O men! will ye dishonor my dignity? How long will ye love vanity, and seek disappointment? (Pause)
How long will you people cause me to be disgraced instead of honoring me [RHQ]? You [people] love to falsely accuse me.
3 Know ye that the LORD hath exalted one that is devoted to him; The LORD will hear, when I call upon him.
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 Stand in awe, and sin no more; Commune with your hearts upon your beds, and desist! (Pause)
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 Offer sacrifices of righteousness, And put your trust in the LORD!
Also, offer to Yahweh the proper sacrifices, and continue trusting in him.
6 There are many who say, Who will show us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us!
Some people ask, “Who will allow good things to happen to us?” [But I say], “Yahweh, continue to act kindly toward us.
7 Thou puttest gladness into my heart, Greater than theirs, when their corn and wine are abundant.
You have made me very happy; I am happier than people who have harvested a great amount of grain and grapes.
8 I will lay me down in peace, and sleep: For thou alone, O LORD! makest me dwell in safety.
I can lie down [at night] and sleep soundly because [I know that] you, Yahweh, will keep me safe.”
