psalm

The Prayer of a Good Person[a]

26 
Declare me innocent, O Lord,

because I do what is right

and trust you completely.

Examine me and test me, Lord;

judge my desires and thoughts.

Your constant love is my guide;

your faithfulness always leads me.[b]

I do not keep company with worthless people;

I have nothing to do with hypocrites.

I hate the company of the evil

and avoid the wicked.

Lord, I wash my hands to show that I am innocent

and march in worship around your altar.

I sing a hymn of thanksgiving

and tell of all your wonderful deeds.

I love the house where you live, O Lord,

the place where your glory dwells.

Do not destroy me with the sinners;

spare me from the fate of murderers—

10 those who do evil all the time

and are always ready to take bribes.

11 As for me, I do what is right;

be merciful to me and save me!

12 I am safe from all dangers;

in the assembly of his people I praise the Lord.

Footnotes

  1. Psalm 26:1 HEBREW TITLE: By David.
  2. Psalm 26:3 your faithfulness always leads me; or I live in loyalty to you.