Browse Bible Study Resources

Daily Devotions

Psalms

Psalms 
Day 
Day 197

Psalm 26:2a "Examine me, O LORD"

Day 197 – Psalm 26

“Examine me, O LORD” Psalm 26:2a

HOW WOULD GOD DECIDE WHOM TO VINDICATE?

David knew that God would examine each and every petition for vindication brought to Him. How would God decide whom to vindicate? Each and every petitioner would have his own personal idea as to how God would judge and decide.

OPEN TO SCRUTINY

David knew that God would judge every petition objectively and fairly. He offered himself freely to God for examination.

“Examine me, O LORD, and prove me;
Try my mind and my heart.”
Psalm 26:2

That was a good start! David is prepared to have not just his words examined by the Lord, but also his heart and mind. Words can be deceptive! But you cannot hide anything from the Lord when He looks deep into the heart and mind.

FOUR AREAS EXAMINED

David offered to have four areas of his life examined, even though these areas may not be directly related to his appeal for vindication!

1. If an examination was made concerning David’s regard for God

He would be able to say that God’s “lovingkindness is before (his) eyes”. David practised the presence of God in his life diligently (Psalm 26:3a).

2. If an examination was made concerning David’s regard for God’s word

He would be able to say that he had “walked in (His) truth” (Psalm 26:3b).

3. If an examination was made concerning David’s inclination to idolatry

He would be able to say that he had never “sat with idolatrous mortals” (Psalm 26:4a).

4. If an examination was made concerning the company David kept

a) He would be able to say that he did not fellowship with “hypocrites” (Psalm 26:4b).
b) He would also be able to say that he “hated the assembly of evildoers” (Psalm 26:5a).
c) He would be able to add that he “will not sit with the wicked” (Psalm 26:5b).

GENUINE INNOCENCE

David would be able to say in all honesty that he was genuinely innocent.

“I will wash my hands in innocence;
So I will go about Your altar, O LORD.”
Psalm 26:6