A Lamentation

Oh LORD how my thoughts torment me.
How chronic is my torture.
How many are my failures LORD.

How long LORD until my future is revealed?

Many are saying of me,
"He is stronger than I. More adventurous than me."
Oh LORD if they but knew how weak I feel,
how fear follows me everywhere I go.

I climb to high places and imagine the fall.
I gaze upon deadly serpents and imagine the sting of their venom.

Protect me from my defeatist thoughts.
Comfort me from uncertainty.

How long I lay in my bed
yet rest does not reach me. I arise slowly.
When will I find joy my God,
How long until I am comforted?

Where is my companion LORD, who shares my hope?
Am I to live alone forever?
Hear my prayer LORD and answer me mercifully.
Where might my friends be now?

How long must I be alone LORD?
When will your mercy be felt?

My cheeks are wet with tears, my face is downcast.
In silence a battle ensues within me.

Deliver me from sadness Father cast melancholy away.
May joy fill my days, happiness saturate my nights.
Might they see my delight, may I be sought out for a share.

May my strength come from you LORD. You alone calm my soul.

Cast down my enemies, be they doubt and uncertainty.,
break their teeth LORD place their heads below my feet.

Praise you Almighty Father!
the source and giver of hope.
You lift up those who are down.
You give strength to the weak.
You answer prayers uttered in secret.
You are my only refuge.
Your presence humbles me,
your love makes me glad.