Valley Of Salt

Save me, O God, for the waters has come up to my neck.
I sink, I sink, into the miry depths,
where there is no foothold. I've come into deep waters,
the floods engulf me. I'm worn out calling for help,
my throat is parched.
I endure scorn for Your sake, and shame covers my face.
I'm a stranger to my brothers, a stranger to my own mother's sons.
Yet zeal for Your house consumes me, and the insults of those
who insult You, fall on me.
My eyes, they fail me, looking for my God.
Those who hate me without reason,
outnumber the hairs on my head.
Many are my enemies, who seek to destroy me.
I'm forced to restore what I didn't steal.
I pray to You, O God, in the time of your favor,
in Your great love, O God, answer me with Your sure salvation.
You know how I'm disgraced and shamed,
my enemies are before You.
May their eyes be darkened so they can not see,
and their backs be bent forever.

(Psalm 69)