38:1   (A psalm by David to be used when an offering is made.) When you are angry, LORD, please don't punish me or even correct me.

38:2   You shot me with your arrows, and you struck me with your hand.

38:3   My body hurts all over because of your anger. Even my bones are in pain, and my sins

38:4   are so heavy that I am crushed.

38:5   Because of my foolishness, I am covered with sores that stink and spread.

38:6   My body is twisted and bent, and I groan all day long.

38:7   Fever has my back in flames, and I hurt all over.

38:8   I am worn out and weak, moaning and in distress.

38:9   You, Lord, know every one of my deepest desires, and my noisy groans are no secret to you.

38:10   My heart is beating fast. I feel weak all over, and my eyes are red.

38:11   Because of my sickness, no friends or neighbors will come near me.

38:12   All who want me dead set traps to catch me, and those who want to harm and destroy me plan and plot all day.

38:13   I am not able to hear or speak a word;

38:14   I am completely deaf and can't make a sound.

38:15   I trust you, LORD God, and you will do something.

38:16   I said, "Don't let them laugh or brag because I slip."

38:17   I am about to collapse from constant pain.

38:18   I told you my sins, and I am sorry for them.

38:19   Many deadly and powerful enemies hate me,

38:20   and they repay evil for good because I try to do right.

38:21   You are the LORD God! Stay nearby and don't desert me.

38:22   You are the one who saves me. Please hurry and help.