United Commentaries

Ps.23.1-28.9

These psalms develop the importance of integrity (25:4-7, 12-14, 21; 26:6, 11; 27:7-12), God’s shepherding care (23:1; 28:9), God’s guidance (23:2-3; 25:5; 27:11), God’s goodness (23:6; 25:7-8; 27:13), and living in his house (23:6; 26:8; 27:4, 8).

Ps.26.1-12

In this individual lament, the psalmist prays for redemption on the basis of his own innocence and the Lord’s justice.

Ps.26.1-3

The psalmist opens himself to divine examination of his life, especially in the areas of his character and devotion.

Ps.26.3

For God’s truth to become part of one’s character requires a habitual commitment.

Ps.26.4-5

Because of his devotion to the Lord (26:1-3), the psalmist dissociates himself from evil people (see 1:1).

Ps.26.6-8

The psalmist demonstrates his loyalty to the Lord through pious rituals, praise, and acknowledgment of the Lord’s presence in the Temple.

Ps.26.6

Ritual purity required the worshiper to wash their hands, symbolic of separation from evil and evildoers (see 73:13).

The altar symbolizes God’s presence (43:4).

Ps.26.8

The sanctuary symbolized the manifest presence of the Lord (see 18:6).

Ps.26.9

Don’t let me suffer: The end of the godly cannot be the same as that of the wicked.

Ps.26.12

The psalmist’s footing on solid ground represents salvation (cp. 143:10).

publicly: Or in the great assembly at the Temple (26:6-8; 22:25).