Psalms 26
Protestation of Integrity and Prayer for Protection.
1 Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity;
I have [relied on and] trusted [confidently] in the Lord without wavering and I shall not slip.
2 Examine me, O Lord, and try me;
Test my heart and my mind.
3 For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes,
And I have walked [faithfully] in Your truth.
4 I do not sit with deceitful or unethical or worthless men,
Nor seek companionship with pretenders (self-righteous hypocrites).
5 I hate the company of evildoers,
And will not sit with the wicked.
6 I will wash my hands in innocence,
And I will go about Your altar, O Lord,
7 That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving
And declare all Your wonders.
8 O Lord, I love the habitation of Your house
And the place where Your glory dwells.
9 Do not sweep my soul away with sinners,
Nor [sweep away] my life with men of bloodshed,
10 In whose hands is a wicked scheme,
And whose right hand is full of bribes.
11 But as for me, I shall walk in my integrity;
Redeem me and be merciful and gracious to me.
12 My foot stands on a level place;
In the congregations I will bless the Lord.