Psalm 31 (Rhyming)
For my protection, Lord, I run to thee,
Oh Lord, please don’t be disappointing me,
Into your righteousness is where I flee.
Come to my rescue—and please be hasty!
Serve as my rock where I can find safety,
You’re a stronghold strong enough to save me.
You’re my rock and my fortification,
Your kindness upholds your reputation.
You saved me from the trap they laid for me,
You did this because my refuge is thee.
Into your hand I deposit my soul,
You saved me; my God reliable.
Don’t collect worthless, temporary dust,
But in Jehovah we should place our trust.
God’s lovingkindness I’ll gladly declare,
’Cause God, you’ve seen the distress that I bear,
and you know how my soul is in despair.
God, you haven’t handed me to my foe,
And you firmly plant my feet wide and low.
God, I’m in distress—give me some relief,
My gut, soul, and eyes wither from my grief.
I spend my life in sorrow and lament,
Only with groaning do my years get spent.
My sin prompts my strength to crumble and sway,
And now my body has wasted away.
My critics destroyed my reputation,
Everyone’s heard around my location.
My friends see me as a monstrosity,
When we cross paths they run away from me.
They ignore me like one who’s passed away,
Or like a cracked vessel made out of clay.
I’ve heard the slander come from every side,
Everyone sees me and is horrified.
Opposing me my critics unify,
They plot to take my life and watch me die.
Oh Existing One, I will trust in you,
Making you my God is what I will do.
Within your strong hands my time is enclosed,
Rescue me from my critics and my foes.
Shine on your servant with light from your face,
Save me because of your kindness and grace.
Don’t let me be shamed since I call on you,
But in death let the wicked’s shame accrue.
Silence their lips which are full of deceit,
Since they challenge the righteous with conceit.
Your goodness is so abundant and great,
When we fear you good things accumulate.
You amass “good” for those who trust in thee,
For those who confide in you publicly.
You shelter us from humanity’s snares,
You keep us safe from disputed affairs.
Even though my city is surrounded,
Bless God ‘cause his love has me dumbfounded.
Alarmed and afraid I let out a cry:
“I must not be in the view of God’s eye!”
Nonetheless you heard the sound of my plea,
My voice reached your ears when I cried to thee.
You saints should feel a love for God inside,
Because he keeps the faithful fortified,
And to the haughty payback is supplied.
All of you who place your hope in the Lord,
Take courage and let your strength be restored!