Psalm 26

1    Give judgement for me, O Lord,

    for I have walked with integrity;  ♦

I have trusted in the Lord and have not faltered.

2    Test me, O Lord, and try me;  ♦

examine my heart and my mind.

3    For your love is before my eyes;  ♦

I have walked in your truth.

4    I have not joined the company of the false,  ♦

nor consorted with the deceitful.

5    I hate the gathering of evildoers  ♦

and I will not sit down with the wicked.

6    I will wash my hands in innocence, O Lord,  ♦

that I may go about your altar,

7    To make heard the voice of thanksgiving  ♦

and tell of all your wonderful deeds.

8    Lord, I love the house of your habitation  ♦

and the place where your glory abides.

9    Sweep me not away with sinners,  ♦

nor my life with the bloodthirsty,

10  Whose hands are full of wicked schemes  ♦

and their right hand full of bribes.

11  As for me, I will walk with integrity;  ♦

redeem me, Lord, and be merciful to me.

12  My foot stands firm;  ♦

in the great congregation I will bless the Lord.

Common Worship: Services and Prayers for the Church of England, material from which is included here,
is copyright © The Archbishops' Council 2000 and published by Church House Publishing.