Psalm 142

1. A psalm[a] of David, regarding his experience in the cave. A prayer. 1 1 I cry out to the Lord; 1 I plead for the Lord’s mercy.

2. I pour out my complaints before him 2 and tell him all my troubles.

3. When I am overwhelmed, 3 you alone know the way I should turn. 3 Wherever I go, 3 my enemies have set traps for me.

4. I look for someone to come and help me, 4 but no one gives me a passing thought! 4 No one will help me; 4 no one cares a bit what happens to me.

5. Then I pray to you, O Lord. 5 I say, “You are my place of refuge. 5 You are all I really want in life.

6. Hear my cry, 6 for I am very low. 6 Rescue me from my persecutors, 6 for they are too strong for me.

7. Bring me out of prison 7 so I can thank you. 7 The godly will crowd around me, 7 for you are good to me.”

Footnotes:
a. 142:Title: Hebrew maskil. This may be a literary or musical term.