Psalm 5

Listen to my words, Lord,

    consider my lament.

2 Hear my cry for help,

    my King and my God,

    for to you I pray.

3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;

    in the morning I lay my requests before you

    and wait expectantly.

4 For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness;

    with you, evil people are not welcome.

5 The arrogant cannot stand

    in your presence.

You hate all who do wrong;

6     you destroy those who tell lies.

The bloodthirsty and deceitful

    you, Lord, detest.

7 But I, by your great love,

    can come into your house;

in reverence I bow down

    towards your holy temple.

8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness

    because of my enemies –

    make your way straight before me.

9 Not a word from their mouth can be trusted;

    their heart is filled with malice.

Their throat is an open grave;

    with their tongues they tell lies.

10 Declare them guilty, O God!

    Let their intrigues be their downfall.

Banish them for their many sins,

    for they have rebelled against you.

11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad;

    let them ever sing for joy.

Spread your protection over them,

    that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

12 Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous;

    you surround them with your favour as with a shield.

Talk  Matthew Foy (recorded at St Ethelburga's Church)