1A maskil: for David (when he was in the cave): a prayer I CRY aloud to the LORD; to the LORD I plead aloud for mercy.
2I pour out my complaint before him and unfold my troubles in his presence.
3When my spirit is faint within me, you are there to watch over my steps. In the path that I should take they have hidden a snare for me.
4I look to my right hand, I find no friend by my side; no way of escape is in sight, no one comes to rescue me.
5I cry to you, LORD, and say, “You are my refuge; you are my portion in the land of the living.
6Give me a hearing when I cry, for I am brought very low. Save me from those who harass me, for they are too strong for me.
7Set me free from prison that I may praise your name.” The righteous will place a crown on me, when you give me my due reward.