Heavenly Devotion: Psalm 26 – Walking in God’s Ways

Psalm 26 – Walking in God’s Ways

(Written by Stephen Lew)

What are the characteristics of the person who walks according to God’s will and ways, and keeps God’s Word in the course of his daily life? The first three verses of Psalm 26 describe such a person.

“…I have walked in my integrity…” (v.1) This describes someone who led a blameless life, who responds to his conscience, not just KNOWING right from wrong but DOING it.

“…I have also trusted in the Lord; I shall not slip.” (v.1) This describes someone with a right heart dedicated to the fact that God’s ways are always superior regardless of the circumstances. He does not waver in his trust because his faith is grounded in the reality of God’s great faithfulness.

“…Your lovingkindness is before my eyes…” (v.3) This describes someone walking in a faith that chooses to view everything according to the standard of God’s grace. He is always mindful of God’s unfailing love. He chooses not to depend on a personal or world-based value system.

“…I have walked in Your truth.” (v.3) This is the sum of the above actions combined, describing a right conscience, heart, and faith dedicated to living and following God’s Word consistently. He lived in total reliance on God’s faithfulness.

In verse 2, David asks God to examine and test him. It is not a statement of pride in himself or his accomplishments, but a request to be held accountable according to God’s minimum standards. Likewise, we are challenged to live lives that are opened to be examined, tested, and held accountable to God.

Let’s read Psalm 26,

1  Vindicate me, O Lord,
For I have walked in my integrity.
I have also trusted in the Lord;
I shall not slip.

2  Examine me, O Lord, and prove me;
Try my mind and my heart.

3  For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes,
And I have walked in Your truth.

4  I have not sat with idolatrous mortals,
Nor will I go in with hypocrites.

5  I have hated the assembly of evildoers,
And will not sit with the wicked.

6  I will wash my hands in innocence;
So I will go about Your altar, O Lord,

7  That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving,
And tell of all Your wondrous works.

8  Lord, I have loved the habitation of Your house,
And the place where Your glory dwells.

9  Do not gather my soul with sinners,
Nor my life with bloodthirsty men,

10  In whose hands is a sinister scheme,
And whose right hand is full of bribes.

11  But as for me, I will walk in my integrity;
Redeem me and be merciful to me.

12  My foot stands in an even place;
In the congregations I will bless the Lord.

Let’s pray

Heavenly Father, we thank You for your great love and blessing over our lives. Thank you that Your favour has no end, but it lasts for our entire lifetime. You are intimately acquainted with all our ways, that You know what concerns us, and You cover us as with a shield. 

Give us the strength and determination to walk in Your blessing and goodness today and every day. That Your face would shine on us. That You would open the right doors for our lives and for our loved ones, and protect us from those we need to walk away from. 

In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.