7
For it is for thy sake that I have borne reproach, that shame has covered my face.
8
I have become a stranger to my brethren, an alien to my mother's sons.
9
For zeal for thy house has consumed me, and the insults of those who insult thee have fallen on me.
10
When I humbled my soul with fasting, it became my reproach.
11
When I made sackcloth my clothing, I became a byword to them.
12
I am the talk of those who sit in the gate, and the drunkards make songs about me.
13
But as for me, my prayer is to thee, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of thy steadfast love answer me. With thy faithful help
14
rescue me from sinking in the mire; let me be delivered from my enemies and from the deep waters.
15
Let not the flood sweep over me, or the deep swallow me up, or the pit close its mouth over me.
16
Answer me, O LORD, for thy steadfast love is good; according to thy abundant mercy, turn to me.
17
Hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in distress, make haste to answer me.
18
Draw near to me, redeem me, set me free because of my enemies!
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. (Revised Standard Version)