Psalms 26

1 A Psalm of David. Judge me, O LORD, for I have walked in mine integrity, and I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.

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 Examine me, O LORD, and try me; test my reins and my heart.

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

3 For Thy mercy is before mine eyes; and I have walked in Thy truth.

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

4 I have not sat with men of falsehood; neither will I go in with dissemblers.

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

5 I hate the gathering of evil doers, and will not sit with the wicked.

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

6 I will wash my hands in innocency; so will I compass Thine altar, O LORD,

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

7 That I may make the voice of thanksgiving to be heard, and tell of all Thy wondrous works.

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

8 LORD, I love the habitation of Thy house, and the place where Thy glory dwelleth.

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

9 Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with 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 is craftiness, and their right hand is full of bribes.

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

11 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity; redeem me, and be gracious unto me.

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

12 My foot standeth in an even place; in the congregations will I bless the LORD.

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