Psalms 69:1-18

God, save me, because the water has risen to my neck. I’m sinking down into the mud, and there is nothing to stand on. I am in deep water, and the flood covers me. I am tired from calling for help; my throat is sore. My eyes are tired from waiting for God to help me. There are more people who hate me for no reason than hairs on my head; powerful enemies want to destroy me for no reason. They make me pay back what I did not steal. God, you know what I have done wrong; I cannot hide my guilt from you. Lord GOD All-Powerful, do not let those who hope in you be ashamed because of me. God of Israel, do not let your worshipers be disgraced because of me. For you, I carry this shame, and my face is covered with disgrace. I am like a stranger to my closest relatives and a foreigner to my mother’s children. My strong love for your Temple completely controls me. When people insult you, it hurts me. When I cry and fast, they make fun of me. When I wear clothes of sadness, they joke about me. They make fun of me in public places, and the drunkards make up songs about me. But I pray to you, LORD, for favor. God, because of your great love, answer me. You are truly able to save. Pull me from the mud, and do not let me sink. Save me from those who hate me and from the deep water. Do not let the flood drown me or the deep water swallow me or the grave close its mouth over me. LORD, answer me because your love is so good. Because of your great kindness, turn to me. Do not hide from me, your servant. I am in trouble. Hurry to help me! Come near and save me; rescue me from my enemies.