9:3 When my enemies turn back,
they trip and are defeated before you.
9:4 For you defended my just cause;
from your throne you pronounced a just decision.
9:5 You terrified the nations with your battle cry;
you destroyed the wicked;
you permanently wiped out all memory of them.
9:6 The enemy’s cities have been reduced to permanent ruins;
you destroyed their cities;
all memory of the enemies has perished.
9:7 But the Lord rules forever;
he reigns in a just manner.
9:8 He judges the world fairly;
he makes just legal decisions for the nations.
9:9 Consequently the Lord provides safety for the oppressed;
he provides safety in times of trouble.
9:10 Your loyal followers trust in you,
for you, Lord, do not abandon those who seek your help.
9:11 Sing praises to the Lord, who rules in Zion!
Tell the nations what he has done!
9:12 For the one who takes revenge against murderers took notice of the oppressed;
he did not overlook their cry for help
9:13 when they prayed:
“Have mercy on me, Lord!
See how I am oppressed by those who hate me,
O one who can snatch me away from the gates of death!
9:14 Then I will tell about all your praiseworthy acts;
in the gates of Daughter Zion I will rejoice because of your deliverance.”
9:15 The nations fell into the pit they had made;
their feet were caught in the net they had hidden.
9:16 The Lord revealed himself;
he accomplished justice;
the wicked were ensnared by their own actions. (Higgaion. Selah)
9:17 The wicked are turned back and sent to Sheol;
this is the destiny of all the nations that ignore God,
9:18 for the needy are not permanently ignored,
the hopes of the oppressed are not forever dashed.
9:19 Rise up, Lord!
Don’t let men be defiant!
May the nations be judged in your presence!
9:20 Terrify them, Lord!
Let the nations know they are mere mortals! (Selah)