Show Don't Tell: Psalm 5

Instead of saying "David prayed for protection from liars," see him at the temple gate. "Listen to my words, LORD, consider my lament. Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray. In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly." First thing—before anything else—prayer, then waiting, watching for the answer. "For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness; with you, evil people are not welcome. The arrogant cannot stand in your presence." Then the wicked described: "Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice. Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they speak deceit." Open grave—the words that come out stink of death. "But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple." The wicked can't approach; the righteous are welcomed. "Lead me, LORD, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me... Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield."