< Psalms 61 >
1 God, listen to me, and answer my prayer [DOU]!
Hear my cry, O God. Attend to my prayer.
2 While I am discouraged and far from my home, I am calling out to you. Lead me to [the place that is like] a high rock [MET] on top of which I will be safe.
From the end of the earth I will call to thee when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
3 You have been my refuge; you have been [like] a strong tower [MET] [in which I am safe] from being attacked by my enemies.
For thou have been a refuge for me, a strong tower from the enemy.
4 Allow me to live close to your temple all during my life [HYP]! Allow me to be safe [MET], [like a little bird is safe] under [its mother’s] wings.
I will dwell in thy tabernacle forever. I will take refuge in the covert of thy wings. (Selah)
5 God, you heard me when I solemnly promised [to give offerings to you]; you have given to me the blessings that belong to those who have an awesome respect for you [MTY].
For thou, O God, have heard my vows. Thou have given me the heritage of those who fear thy name.
6 [I am] the king [of Israel]; [please] allow me to live [and rule] for many years, and allow my descendants to rule [also].
Thou will prolong the king's life. His years shall be as many generations.
7 Allow us to rule forever while you observe us; watch over us while you faithfully love us and do for us what you promised.
He shall abide before God forever. O prepare loving kindness and truth that they may preserve him.
8 If you do that, I will always sing to praise you [MTY] while I offer to you each day the sacrifices that I promised to give to you.
So I will sing praise to thy name forever, that I may daily perform my vows.