Psalm 26

A psalm of David. ¹Declare me innocent, O LORD, for I have acted with integrity; I have trusted in the LORD without wavering. ² Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and my heart. ³ For I am always aware of your unfailing love, and I have lived according to your truth. ⁴ I do not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites. ⁵ I hate the gatherings of those who do evil, and I refuse to join in with the wicked. ⁶ I wash my hands to declare my innocence. I come to your altar, O LORD, ⁷ singing a song of thanksgiving and telling of all your wonders. ⁸ I love your sanctuary, LORD, the place where your glorious presence dwells.

⁹Don’t let me suffer the fate of sinners. Don’t condemn me along with murderers. ¹⁰ Their hands are dirty with evil schemes, and they constantly take bribes. ¹¹ But I am not like that; I live with integrity. So redeem me and show me mercy. ¹² Now I stand on solid ground, and I will publicly praise the LORD.