Be merciful to me, O God - for those

1 Be merciful to me, O God-
for those who harm draw near;
they turn my words of good intent,
they fill my day with fear.

2 I fear the hurtful word of scorn,
I dread the mocking gaze,
the deed that comes of cruelty,
the hatred it betrays.

3 But when I am afraid, O God,
I'll put my trust in you:
if God immortal strengthens me,
what harm can mortals do?

4 My tears are gone now lead me, Lord,
defend me in the strife:
for then in your great strength I'll walk
led by the Light of Life.

After Psalm 56, Paul Wigmore (born 1925)
© Paul Wigmore/Jubilate Hymns
CM