< Psalms 4 >
1 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.
For the choirmaster. With stringed instruments. A Psalm of David. Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved my distress; show me grace and hear my prayer.
2 How long will you people cause me to be disgraced instead of honoring me [RHQ]? You [people] love to falsely accuse me.
How long, O men, will my honor be maligned? How long will you love vanity and seek after lies?
3 All those who are loyal to Yahweh, he has chosen them to belong to him. Yahweh listens to me when I pray to him.
Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD hears when I call to Him.
4 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.
Be angry, yet do not sin; on your bed, search your heart and be still.
5 Also, offer to Yahweh the proper sacrifices, and continue trusting in him.
Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the LORD.
6 Some people ask, “Who will allow good things to happen to us?” [But I say], “Yahweh, continue to act kindly toward us.
Many ask, “Who can show us the good?” Shine the light of Your face upon us, O LORD.
7 You have made me very happy; I am happier than people who have harvested a great amount of grain and grapes.
You have filled my heart with more joy than when grain and new wine abound.
8 I can lie down [at night] and sleep soundly because [I know that] you, Yahweh, will keep me safe.”
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.