Psalms 26

KJV · Chapter 26/150

1Judge me, O Lord; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the Lord; therefore I shall not slide.

2Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.

3For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.

4I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.

5I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.

6I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O Lord:

7That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.

8Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.

9Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men:

10In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes.

11But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.

12My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the Lord.

📖 Chapter study

Summary

David asks God to examine him and prove his integrity, affirming that he avoids the company of wicked people and loves the house of the LORD, ending with a plea not to be treated like the ungodly.

Explanation

This psalm is a declaration of personal integrity before God, a theme that appears in several Davidic psalms (such as Psalm 17). It is not about absolute moral perfection, but about sincerity of heart and a conscious refusal to associate with corrupt practices ('I have not sat with vain persons'). The act of 'washing the hands in innocency' before approaching the altar reflects purification rituals practiced at the temple. Today's application: examining one's own company and daily choices is part of keeping a clean conscience before God.

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