1By David. 2Take hold of shield and buckler, 3Brandish the spear and block those who pursue me. 4Let those who seek after my soul be disappointed and brought to dishonor. 5Let them be as chaff before the wind, 6Let their way be dark and slippery, 7For without cause they have hidden their net in a pit for me. 8Let destruction come on him unawares. 9My soul shall be joyful in the LORD. 10All my bones shall say, "LORD, who is like you, 11Unrighteous witnesses rise up. 12They reward me evil for good, 13But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth. 14I behaved myself as though it had been my friend or my brother. 15But in my adversity, they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together. 16Like the profane mockers in feasts, 17Lord, how long will you look on? 18I will give you thanks in the great assembly. 19Do not let those who are my enemies wrongfully rejoice over me; 20For they do not speak peace, 21Yes, they opened their mouth wide against me. 22You have seen it, LORD. Do not keep silent. 23Wake up! Rise up to defend me, my God! 24Vindicate me, LORD my God, according to your righteousness. 25Do not let them say in their heart, "Aha! That's the way we want it!" 26Let them be disappointed and confounded together who rejoice at my calamity. 27Let them shout for joy and be glad, who favor my righteous cause. 28My tongue shall talk about your righteousness and about your praise all day long.¶