Psalms 26

1 Yahweh, show that I (am innocent/have not done what is wrong). I always do what is right; I have trusted in you and never doubted [that you would help me].

A psalm of David. Confirm that I'm innocent, Lord, for I have acted with integrity, and I have trusted in the Lord without fail.

2 Yahweh, examine what I have done and test me; thoroughly evaluate what I think [IDM].

Examine me, Lord, test me; investigate my thoughts and intentions.

3 I never forget that you faithfully love me, I conduct my life according to your truth.

For I always remember your trustworthy love, and I follow your truth.

4 I do not spend my time with liars and I stay away from hypocrites.

I don't join in with liars and I don't associate with hypocrites.

5 I do not like to be with evil people, and I avoid wicked people.

I refuse to get together with those who do evil, and I won't involve myself with the wicked.

6 Yahweh, I wash my hands to show that I (am innocent/have not done what was wrong). As I join with others marching around your altar,

I wash my hands to show my innocence. I come to worship at your altar, Lord,

7 we sing songs to thank you, and we tell others the wonderful things that you [have done].

singing my thanks, telling of all the wonderful things you have done.

8 Yahweh, I love [to be in] the temple where you live, in the place where your glory appears.

Lord, I love your house, the place where you live in your glory.

9 Do not get rid of me like you get rid of sinners; do not cause me to die like you cause those who murder [MTY] people to die,

Please don't sweep me away along with sinners. Don't include me with those who commit murder,

10 and people who [SYN] are ready to do wicked things and people who are always taking bribes.

whose hands carry out their evil schemes and grab hold of bribes.

11 But as for me, I always try to do what is right. So be kind to me and rescue me.

For I don't do that—I act with integrity. Save me and be gracious to me!

12 I stand in places where I am safe, and when [all your people] gather together, I praise you.

I stand for what's right, and I will praise the Lord when we meet together to worship him.