Psalms 26

1 Of David. O Lord, be my judge, for my behaviour has been upright: I have put my faith in the Lord, I am not in danger of slipping.

A psalm of David. Confirm that I'm innocent, Lord, for I have acted with integrity, and I have trusted in the Lord without fail.

2 Put me in the scales, O Lord, so that I may be tested; let the fire make clean my thoughts and my heart.

Examine me, Lord, test me; investigate my thoughts and intentions.

3 For your mercy is before my eyes; and I have gone in the way of your good faith.

For I always remember your trustworthy love, and I follow your truth.

4 I have not taken my seat with foolish persons, and I do not go with false men.

I don't join in with liars and I don't associate with hypocrites.

5 I have been a hater of the band of wrongdoers, and I will not be seated among sinners.

I refuse to get together with those who do evil, and I won't involve myself with the wicked.

6 I will make my hands clean from sin; so will I go round your altar, O Lord;

I wash my hands to show my innocence. I come to worship at your altar, Lord,

7 That I may give out the voice of praise, and make public all the wonders which you have done.

singing my thanks, telling of all the wonderful things you have done.

8 Lord, your house has been dear to me, and the resting-place of your glory.

Lord, I love your house, the place where you live in your glory.

9 Let not my soul be numbered among sinners, or my life among men of blood;

Please don't sweep me away along with sinners. Don't include me with those who commit murder,

10 In whose hands are evil designs, and whose right hands take money for judging falsely.

whose hands carry out their evil schemes and grab hold of bribes.

11 But as for me, I will go on in my upright ways: be my saviour, and have mercy on me.

For I don't do that—I act with integrity. Save me and be gracious to me!

12 I have a safe resting-place for my feet; I will give praise to the Lord in the meetings of the people.

I stand for what's right, and I will praise the Lord when we meet together to worship him.