Psalm 26
- Judge me, O Lord; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the Lord; therefore I shall not slide.
- Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
- For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.
- I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.
- I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.
- I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O Lord:
- That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.
- Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.
- Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men:
- In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes.
- But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.
- My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the Lord.
Psalm 26 is a prayer of the psalmist for vindication and protection against the influence of evildoers. The psalmist begins by inviting God to judge them based on their integrity and trust in Him, confident that they will not falter.
They appeal to God to examine and test them, affirming their commitment to righteousness and truth. The psalmist declares their separation from the wicked and their refusal to associate with those who practice deceit and evil.
The psalmist expresses their devotion to God’s house and worship, seeking to maintain purity and innocence before Him. They acknowledge God’s lovingkindness and recount His wondrous works with thanksgiving.
Furthermore, the psalmist petitions God to keep them separate from sinners and to redeem them from any danger or temptation posed by evildoers. They affirm their determination to walk in integrity and righteousness, trusting in God’s mercy.
In conclusion, Psalm 26 highlights the psalmist’s unwavering commitment to righteousness and trust in God’s judgment. It serves as a prayer for protection against the influence of wickedness and a declaration of loyalty to God’s ways.