Psalm Twenty Six

by Dr. Henry M. Morris

(taken from the Defender's Study Bible)

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A Psalm of David.

Psalm 26:1 Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.

Psalm 26:2 Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.

my reins and my heart. “Reins and heart” commonly are used as figures for the thoughts and emotions”; as representative the innermost being, just as the reins (that is kidneys) and heart are vital internal organs of the body. The word “reins” is an archaic term for “kidneys,” and the Hebrew word is commonly translated “kidneys” when referring to the actual physical organ. See note on Psalm 7:9.

Psalm 26:3 For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.

thy truth. See note on Psalm 25:10. In the Hebrew text, “mercy” and “lovingkindness” are the same word.

Psalm 26:4 I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.

Psalm 26:5 I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.

Psalm 26:6 I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:

Psalm 26:7 That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.

Psalm 26:8 LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.

Psalm 26:9 Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men:

Psalm 26:10 In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes.

Psalm 26:11 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.

Psalm 26:12 My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD.