Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 26

David’s Appeal for Justice and SincerityThis psalm was probably written when David was being wrongly accused and persecuted by Saul and his followers. They spread false stories about David and made him look like a terrible person, even though he was innocent. This situation reminds us of Jesus, who was also hated and lied about, and of the warning that all who follow God may be falsely accused. In this chapter, David shows us what to do when we are treated unfairly.v. 1: David prays, Judge me, O Lord

v. 2: David says, Examine me, O Lord

v. 3: He explains, For thy lovingkindness is before my eyes: and I have walked in thy truth. David is motivated by God’s love and tries to live according to God’s word. He knows that when we focus on God’s kindness and follow His truth, it helps us to be sincere and faithful. Only those who live by God’s truth can expect to fully enjoy His love and favor.

v. 4-5: David continues, I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers. I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked(Psalm 26:4-5 ). He has always avoided the company of people who do evil or pretend to be good. David refuses to join in their plans or make close friends with them. He even dislikes being with those who are simply foolish and empty, because their influence can be dangerous. David’s choice to stay away from bad company is a sign of his integrity. He also knows that just as good people encourage each other to do good, bad people become worse together. This is an example for all believers, as the Bible says, save yourselves from this untoward generation(Acts 2:40 ).

Delight in Divine OrdinancesIn these verses, David shows that he truly loves God’s ways and enjoys worshipping Him. He is careful to prepare himself before coming to God, and he finds real joy in being with others at God’s house. David’s attitude is different from hypocrites, who may attend worship for show. He comes with a sincere heart, wanting to honor God and be close to Him.v. 6: David says, I will wash my hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O Lord

v. 7: He continues, That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works. David comes to worship not just to ask for things, but to thank God and praise Him for all the amazing things He has done. He wants others to hear about God’s goodness and join in giving thanks.

v. 8: David says, Lord

v. 9-10: David prays, Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men: in whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes(Psalm 26:9-10 ). He asks God not to let him share the fate of wicked people, who do evil and take bribes. David does not want to be counted among them in life or in death. He knows that in the end, everyone will be gathered either with the righteous or with sinners (Matthew 13:30 ).

v. 11: He promises, But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me. David is determined to keep living honestly and asks God to save him and show him mercy. Even when we try to do what is right, we still need God’s grace and forgiveness.

v. 12: Finally, David says, My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the Lord