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 music director. A psalm of David, to be accompanied by string instruments. When I call, please answer me, God who vindicates me. When I was hemmed in by troubles, you gave me a way out. Be gracious to me 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 will you people ruin my reputation? How long will you love what is worthless and tell lies? (Selah)
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.
You should realize that the Lord shows special favor to the faithful. The Lord listens 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 in awe, do not sin. When you rest, reflect on this, and keep quiet! (Selah)
5 Also, offer to Yahweh the proper sacrifices, and continue trusting in him.
Offer sacrifices with the right attitude. 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 say, “Who is going to show us some good?” Lord, may your face shine upon us.
7 You have made me very happy; I am happier than people who have harvested a great amount of grain and grapes.
The happiness you give me is better than those who have a plentiful harvest of grain and new wine.
8 I can lie down [at night] and sleep soundly because [I know that] you, Yahweh, will keep me safe.”
I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you, Lord, alone keep me safe.
