Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary <<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. PSALM 26
Ps 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 Ps 25:21). His confidence of perseverance results from trust in God's sustaining grace. Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart. 2. He asks the most careful scrutiny of his affections and thoughts (Ps 7:9), or motives.
For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth. 3. As often, the ground of prayer for present help is former favor.
I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers. 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.
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: 6. wash mine hands—expressive symbol of freedom from sinful acts (compare Mt 27:24).
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. 8. the habitation of thy house—where Thy house rests, as the tabernacle was not yet permanently fixed.
honour dwelleth—conveys an allusion to the Holy of Holies. Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men: 9. Gather not, &c.—Bring me not to death.
bloody men—(compare Ps 5:6). In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes. 10. Their whole conduct is that of violence and fraud.
But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me. 11, 12. But, &c.—He contrasts his character and destiny with that of the wicked (compare Ps 26:1, 2).
My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD. 12. even place—free from occasions of stumbling—safety in his course is denoted. Hence he will render to God his praise publicly. |
