Psalms 26

King James Version (KJV) · English

1 Judge me, O Lord; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the Lord; therefore I shall not slide. 2 Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart. 3 For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth. 4 I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers. 5 I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked. 6 I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O Lord: 7 That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works. 8 Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth. 9 Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men: 10 In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes. 11 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me. 12 My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the Lord.

Commentary

Commentary — not Bible text

Psalms 26:1

PSALM 26

Psa 26:1-12. After appealing to God's judgment on his avowed integrity and innocence of the charges laid by his enemies, the Psalmist professes delight in God's worship, and prays for exemption from the fate of the wicked, expressing assurance of God's favor.

1. Judge--decide on my case; the appeal of innocence.

in mine integrity--freedom from blemish (compare Psa 25:21). His confidence of perseverance results from trust in God's sustaining grace.

Psalms 26:2

2. He asks the most careful scrutiny of his affections and thoughts (Psa 7:9), or motives.

Psalms 26:3

3. As often, the ground of prayer for present help is former favor.

Psalms 26:4-8

4-8. As exemplified by the fruits of divine grace, presented in his life, especially in his avoiding the wicked and his purposes of cleaving to God's worship.

Psalms 26:9

9. Gather not, &c.--Bring me not to death.

bloody men--(compare Psa 5:6).

Psalms 26:10

10. Their whole conduct is that of violence and fraud.

Psalms 26:11-12

11-12. But, &c.--He contrasts his character and destiny with that of the wicked (compare Psa 26:1, 2).

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