19 Ps 26.1-7 David’s clear conscience

David, who in other psalms acknowledged and confessed his sinfulness, in this psalm invites YHWH to judge him, asserting YHWH will find him guiltless. Though, of course, until a saint is perfected in their glorified body, they cannot be actually sinless in God’s sight, here God tells us it is possible to temporarily have a clear conscience before the LORD, having no known sin to address in either thought or deed.

Psalm 26:1–7 (ESV)

1Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.

2Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and my mind.

3For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in your faithfulness.

4I do not sit with men of falsehood, nor do I consort with hypocrites.

5I hate the assembly of evildoers, and I will not sit with the wicked.

6I wash my hands in innocence and go around your altar, O LORD,

7proclaiming thanksgiving aloud, and telling all your wondrous deeds.