Psalms 61

1 God, listen to me, and answer my prayer [DOU]!

To the chief Musician upon Neginah, [A Psalm] of David. 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 will I cry 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 hast been a shelter for me, [and] 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 abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust 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, hast heard my vows: thou hast given [me] the heritage of those that 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 wilt prolong the king's life: [and] his years 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 for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, [which] 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 will I sing praise to thy name for ever, that I may daily perform my vows.