Psalms 140 in plain modern English. New Ground English Translation.

Pull me free, Yahweh, from those who destroy. Shield me from those who deal in violence.

Their hearts are always scheming up harm; every single day they stir up conflict.

They sharpen their tongues like a serpent's fang; the venom of vipers hides behind their lips.

Guard me, Yahweh, from the grip of the wicked. Keep me safe from those who deal in violence, from those who plot to trip me up.

The arrogant have hidden a trap for me; they've spread their net of ropes along the path, set snares waiting for me at every turn.

I said to Yahweh, "You are my God." Hear my desperate cry for help, Yahweh.

Yahweh, my master, the strong one who rescues me, you shielded my head on the day of battle.

Yahweh, do not give the wicked what they want. Do not let their schemes succeed, or they will rise up unchecked.

As for those who surround me -- let the poison of their own words rain down on their heads.

Let burning coals fall on them; let them be thrown into the fire, into deep pits they can never climb out of.

Let no one who spreads slander find a home in the land. Let violence hunt down the violent and strike them down.

I know this: Yahweh takes up the cause of the suffering. He fights for justice for those who have nothing.

Yes -- those who do right will praise your name, and the upright will live in your presence.