Old Testament
Psalms 26
Overview
Psalm 26 is a prayer for vindication in which David asks God to examine and test him, confident in his integrity and his love for the LORD's house. He contrasts himself with the deceitful and wicked, declaring that he washes his hands in innocence and walks around God's altar, that he hates the assembly of evildoers, and that he loves the place where God's glory dwells. He closes by asking to be redeemed and graciously treated, standing on level ground and blessing the LORD in the congregation.
1A Psalm of David. Judge 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.