1I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O Lord, will I sing.
2I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
3I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
4A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.
5Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.
6Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me.
7He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.
8I will early destroy all the wicked of the land; that I may cut off all wicked doers from the city of the Lord.
📖 Chapter study
Summary
David makes a personal vow of integrity: he promises to walk with a sincere heart within his own house, to avoid corrupt company, and not to tolerate deceit or pride among those who serve him.
Explanation
This psalm is known as a 'royal psalm' with a strong ethical tone — David describes the kind of ruler he intends to be, prioritizing personal integrity and the careful choice of loyal, honest advisors and servants. It is a rare biblical example of a leader publicly committing to clear ethical standards even before failing (something David himself would later do, as in the Bathsheba episode). The application today is that anyone in a position of leadership — family, professional, or spiritual — benefits from setting clear commitments of character in advance.
Fun facts
- This psalm is traditionally known as the 'mirror for princes,' a genre of text used to instruct rulers on ethics and conduct.
- The emphasis on choosing faithful servants (v. 6-7) reflects a practical concern of ancient government: the king's court was made up of trusted people who could make or break the integrity of the reign.