Psalms 26

David, in this psalm, appeals to God touching his integrity. --David here, by the Spirit of prophecy, speaks of himself as a type of Christ, of whom what he here says of his spotless innocence was fully and eminently true, and of Christ only, and to Him we may apply it. We are complete in him. The man that walks in his integrity, yet trusting wholly in the grace of God, is in a state of acceptance, according to the covenant of which Jesus was the Mediator, in virtue of his spotless obedience even unto death. This man desires to have his inmost soul searched and proved by the Lord. He is aware of the deceitfulness of his own heart; he desires to detect and mortify every sin; and he longs to be satisfied of his being a true believer, and to practise the holy commands of God. Great care to avoid bad company, is both a good evidence of our integrity, and a good means to keep us in it. Hypocrites and dissemblers may be found attending on God's ordinances; but it is a good sign of sincerity, if we attend upon them, as the psalmist here tells us he did, in the exercise of repentance and conscientious obedience. He feels his ground firm under him; and, as he delights in blessing the Lord with his congregations on earth, he trusts that shortly he shall join the great assembly in heaven, in singing praises to God and to the Lamb for evermore.

Judge--decide on my case; the appeal of innocence. in mine integrity--freedom from blemish (compare Ps 25:21). His confidence of perseverance results from trust in God's sustaining grace.

and innocence of the charges laid by his enemies, the Psalmist professes delight in God's worship, and prays for exemption from the fate of the wicked, expressing assurance of God's favor.

He asks the most careful scrutiny of his affections and thoughts (Ps 7:9), or motives.

As often, the ground of prayer for present help is former favor. 4-8. As exemplified by the fruits of divine grace, presented in his life, especially in his avoiding the wicked and his purposes of cleaving to God's worship.

wash mine hands--expressive symbol of freedom from sinful acts (compare Mt 27:24).

the habitation of thy house--where Thy house rests, as the tabernacle was not yet permanently fixed. honour dwelleth--conveys an allusion to the Holy of Holies.

Gather not, &c.--Bring me not to death. bloody men--(compare Ps 5:6).

Their whole conduct is that of violence and fraud.

But, &c.--He contrasts his character and destiny with that of the wicked (compare Ps 26:1, 2).

even place--free from occasions of stumbling--safety in his course is denoted. Hence he will render to God his praise publicly. PSALM 27