12 Queen Esther, seized with mortal anguish, fled to the Lord for refuge.
14 Then she prayed to the Lord, the God of Israel, saying: “My Lord, you alone are our King. Help me, who am alone and have no help but you,
15 for I am taking my life in my hand.
16 From birth, I have heard among my people that you, Lord, chose Israel from among all nations, and our ancestors from among all their forebears, as a lasting inheritance, and that you fulfilled all your promises to them.
23 Be mindful of us, Lord. Make yourself known in the time of our distress and give me courage, King of gods and Ruler of every power.
24 Put in my mouth persuasive words in the presence of the lion, and turn his heart to hatred for our enemy, so that he and his co-conspirators may perish.
25 Save us by your power, and help me, who am alone and have no one but you, Lord.
1 Of David. I thank you, LORD, with all my heart; before the gods to you I sing.
2 I bow low toward your holy temple; I praise your name for your fidelity and love. For you have exalted over all your name and your promise.
3 When I cried out, you answered; you strengthened my spirit.
7 Though I walk in the midst of dangers, you guard my life when my enemies rage. You stretch out your hand; your right hand saves me.
8 The LORD is with me to the end. LORD, your love endures forever. Never forsake the work of your hands!
7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
8 For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
9 Which one of you would hand his son a stone when he asks for a loaf of bread,
10 or a snake when he asks for a fish?
11 If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.
12 “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets.
