Psalms 101

KJV · Chapter 101/150

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.

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