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 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!
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 ye dishonor my dignity? How long will ye love vanity, and seek disappointment? (Pause)
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 ye that the LORD hath exalted one that is devoted to him; The LORD will hear, when I call upon 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.
Stand in awe, and sin no more; Commune with your hearts upon your beds, and desist! (Pause)
5 Also, offer to Yahweh the proper sacrifices, and continue trusting in him.
Offer sacrifices of righteousness, And put your 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.
There are many who say, Who will show us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us!
7 You have made me very happy; I am happier than people who have harvested a great amount of grain and grapes.
Thou puttest gladness into my heart, Greater than theirs, when their corn and wine are abundant.
8 I can lie down [at night] and sleep soundly because [I know that] you, Yahweh, will keep me safe.”
I will lay me down in peace, and sleep: For thou alone, O LORD! makest me dwell in safety.
