King James Version
Psalm 26
Standing within Book I of the Psalter, Psalm 26 presents an earnest prayer for vindication and integrity. The speaker reflects on a life lived with honest intentions, seeking distance from deceitful associates and choosing instead to worship alongside the community. Rather than claiming sinless perfection, the writer asks God to examine the heart and test internal motives, expressing a deep affection for the place where divine glory dwells. It functions as an individual lament grounded in moral commitment and quiet confidence. A central key verse captures this dedication: "LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth." (Psalm 26:8). The passage invites steady trust during personal trials.
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.
GO DEEPER
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