He made them objects of compassion to all who held them captive.

Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no path to a city in which to dwell.

They were hungry and thirsty; their soul fainted within them.

Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and chains,

because they rebelled against the words of God and despised the counsel of the Most High.

He humbled their hearts with hard labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help.

Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress.

He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death and broke away their chains.

They loathed all food and drew near to the gates of death.

Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress.

He sent forth His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit.

Others went out to sea in ships, conducting trade on the mighty waters.

They saw the works of the LORD, and His wonders in the deep.

For He spoke and raised a tempest that lifted the waves of the sea.

They mounted up to the heavens, then sunk to the depths; their courage melted in their anguish.

They reeled and staggered like drunkards, and all their skill was useless.

Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He brought them out of their distress.

He calmed the storm to a whisper, and the waves of the sea were hushed.

They rejoiced in the silence, and He guided them to the harbor they desired.

Respond and save us with Your right hand, that Your beloved may be delivered.

For the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. O God of my praise, be not silent.

They surround me with hateful words and attack me without cause.

When he is tried, let him be found guilty, and may his prayer be regarded as sin.

May his days be few; may another take his position.

May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow.