For the chief Musician on strings, A Psalm of David.

For the conductor of the singing [(on the platform by the Levites)], a psalm of David.

Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: Thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.

When I call, answer me, O G d, who accords me righteousness. In affliction, You [ever] broadened [the way] for me, [so now] be gracious unto me and heed my prayer.

O sons of men, how long will you turn my glory into shame? you love vanity, and seek after falsehood. (Sela.)

Sons of man [(Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are called "man")], how long [will you turn] My honor to shame? will you love emptiness? will you [continue to] seek deceit?

But know that the Lord has set apart the godly man as his own: the Lord will hear when I call to him.

But know that the L rd has set aside the saintly one for Himself; the L rd shall hear when I call to Him.

Tremble, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. (Sela.)

Tremble [in fear of the L rd] and you shall not sin. Affirm in your hearts upon your beds [(that the L rd exhorted thus)], and be forever stilled [of deceit].

Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord.

Slaughter offerings of righteousness [i.e., perform righteous deeds], and trust to the L rd [to bestow good upon you].

There are many who say, Who will show us good? Lord, lift Thou up the light of Thy countenance upon us.

Many [(who see the gentiles in their prosperity)] say: "Who would show us [such] good! Raise up over us the light of Your countenance, O L rd!"

Thou hast put more gladness in my heart than they have whose corn and wine are increased.

[But, I do not envy them, for] You placed joy in my heart from the time that their corn and their wine increased! [viz.: "If so, (i.e., so much good) for those who anger Him, how much more so (in the world to come), for those who do His will!"]

I will both lie down and sleep, in peace: for Thou, Lord, alone, makest me to dwell in safety.

[If Israel were] at peace together [(with me)], I would lie down and sleep [secure]. You, O L rd, [(no guard required)], alone, secure would make me dwell [viz. Deuteronomy 33:28].