King James Version
Psalm 143
Distressed by relentless opposition and personal weakness, the psalmist reflects on past deeds while praying for guidance, mercy, and quickening life. He asks not to be judged strictly, recognizing human imperfection, and seeks to be led into upright paths. As the seventh traditional penitential psalm and part of the final Davidic collection (Psalms 138 to 145), it bridges deep vulnerability with earnest desire for growth. A comforting key verse summarizes this search for direction: "Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good" (Psalm 143:10). The text encourages spiritual honesty and daily guidance.
1 Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.
2 And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no man living be justified.
3 For the enemy hath persecuted my soul; he hath smitten my life down to the ground; he hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been long dead.
4 Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate.
5 I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.
6 I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah.
7 Hear me speedily, O LORD: my spirit faileth: hide not thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit.
8 Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.
9 Deliver me, O LORD, from mine enemies: I flee unto thee to hide me.
10 Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.
11 Quicken me, O LORD, for thy name’s sake: for thy righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.
12 And of thy mercy cut off mine enemies, and destroy all them that afflict my soul: for I am thy servant.
GO DEEPER
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