(A psalm. Of David. This was when he was in the desert of Juda.)

O God, thou art my God; how eager my quest for thee, body athirst and soul longing for thee,

like some parched wilderness, where stream is none! So in the holy place, I contemplate thee, ready for the revelation of thy greatness, thy glory.

To win thy favour is dearer to me than life itself; my songs of praise can no more be withheld.

So, all my life long, I will bless thee, holding up my hands in honour of thy name;

my heart filled, as with some rich feast, my mouth, in joyful accents, singing thy praise.

My thoughts shall go out to thee at dawn, as I lie awake remembering thee,

and the protection thou hast given me. Gladly I take shelter under thy wings,

cling close to thee, borne up by thy protecting hand.

In vain do my enemies plot against my life, soon to be swallowed up in the depths of earth,

a prey to the sword, carrion for jackals!

The king shall triumph in God’s protection, blessed as they are ever blessed who take their vows in his name; silence shall fall on the lips that muttered treason.