039) Psalm 26
8.6.8.6.
1 Judge me, O Lord, for I the paths of righteousness have trod;
I cannot fail, who all my trust repose on thee, my God.
2,3 Search, prove my heart, whose innocence will shine the more ’tis tried; For I have kept thy grace in view, and made thy truth my guide.
4 I never for companions took the idle or profane; No hypocrite, with all his arts, could e’er my friendship gain.
5 I hate the busy plotting crew, who make distracted times; And shun their wicked company, as I avoid their crimes.
6 I’ll wash my hands in innocence, and bring a heart so pure, That when thy altar I approach, my welcome shall secure.
7,8 My thanks I’ll publish there, and tell how thy renown excels; That seat affords me most delight, in which thy honor dwells.
9 Pass not on me the sinner’s doom, who murder make their trade;
10 Who others’ rights, by secret bribes, or open force invade.
11 But I will walk in paths of truth, and innocence pursue;
Protect me, therefore, and to me thy mercies, Lord, renew.
12 In spite of all assailing foes I still maintain my ground; And shall survive amongst thy saints, thy praises to resound.
____________________