Be merciful to me, LORD, for I am in trouble;

my eyes are tired from so much crying;

I am completely worn out. I am exhausted by sorrow,

and weeping has shortened my life. I am weak from all my troubles;

even my bones are wasting away.

All my enemies, and especially my neighbors, treat me with contempt;

Those who know me are afraid of me; when they see me in the street, they run away.

Everyone has forgotten me, as though I were dead; I am like something thrown away.

I hear many enemies whispering; terror is all around me.

They are making plans against me, plotting to kill me.

But my trust is in you, O LORD; you are my God.

I am always in your care; save me from my enemies,

from those who persecute me.

Look on your servant with kindness; save me in your constant love.

May the wicked be disgraced;

may they go silently down to the world of the dead.

Silence those liars - all the proud and arrogant

who speak with contempt about righteous men.

Psalm 31:9-18