Psalms Chapter 26 (KJV)
Psalms 26
Integrity and Righteous LivingTrust in God's JudgmentSeparation from EvilWorship and ThanksgivingGod's Redemption and Mercy
[{A 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.
Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
For thy lovingkindness {is} before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.
I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.
I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.
I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:
That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.
LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth. {where...: Heb. of the tabernacle of thy honour}
Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men: {Gather...: or, Take not away} {bloody...: Heb. men of blood}
In whose hands {is} mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes. {full...: Heb. filled with}
But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.
My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD.
Context & Meaning
Psalm 26 is David's appeal to God for examination and vindication as he declares his commitment to integrity and separation from evil. The psalm expresses David's trust in God's judgment and his determination to worship God faithfully despite surrounding wickedness.