PSALMS (26)

0. Introduction

a) Psalms is a great collection of songs and prayers expresses the heart and soul of humanity. In them, the whole range of human experiences is expressed. David and the other writers honestly pour out their true feelings, reflecting a dynamic, powerful, and life-changing relationship with God. The psalmists confess their sins, express their doubts and fears, ask God for help in times of trouble, and praise and worship him.

b) As you read Psalms, let the honesty of the psalmists guide you into a deep and genuine relationship with God.

1. Psalms 26

a) A Psalms of David.

2. Theme:

a) Declaring loyalty to God. If we are genuinely committed to God, we can stand up to opposition and examination.

3. Author:

a) David, possibly written during the days of Absalom's rebellion.

4. Scripture text: Psalms 26:1-12

i) Vindicate me, O Lord,
For I have walked in my integrity.
I have also trusted in the Lord;
I shall not slip.
² Examine me, O Lord, and prove me;
Try my mind and my heart.
³ For Your loving-kindness is before my eyes,
And I have walked in Your truth.
⁴ I have not sat with idolatrous mortals,
Nor will I go in with hypocrites.
⁵ I have hated the assembly of evildoers,
And will not sit with the wicked.

⁶ I will wash my hands in innocence;

So I will go about Your altar, O Lord,
⁷ That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving,
And tell of all Your wondrous works.
⁸ Lord, I have loved the habitation of Your house,
And the place where Your glory dwells.

⁹ Do not gather my soul with sinners,
Nor my life with bloodthirsty men,
¹⁰ In whose hands is a sinister scheme,
And whose right hand is full of bribes.

¹¹ But as for me, I will walk in my integrity;

Redeem me and be merciful to me.
¹² My foot stands in an even place;
In the congregations I will bless the Lord. (Psalms 26:1-12 NKJV)