God’s Guiding Word: Prayer
Introduction
Psalm 26: Today’s reading is a psalm in which the writer is seeking God’s justice and declaration of innocence. The writer claims to do what is right, seeks to avoid evildoers, and expresses love for God’s house.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 26:2
Examine me and test me, LORD; judge my desires and thoughts.
Reading
26 Declare me innocent, O Lord,
because I do what is right
and trust you completely.
2 Examine me and test me, Lord;
judge my desires and thoughts.
3 Your constant love is my guide;
your faithfulness always leads me.
4 I do not keep company with worthless people;
I have nothing to do with hypocrites.
5 I hate the company of the evil
and avoid the wicked.
6 Lord, I wash my hands to show that I am innocent
and march in worship around your altar.
7 I sing a hymn of thanksgiving
and tell of all your wonderful deeds.
8 I love the house where you live, O Lord,
the place where your glory dwells.
9 Do not destroy me with the sinners;
spare me from the fate of murderers—
10 those who do evil all the time
and are always ready to take bribes.
11 As for me, I do what is right;
be merciful to me and save me!
12 I am safe from all dangers;
in the assembly of his people I praise the Lord.
Reflect
The psalm writer asks to be examined and tested by God (verse 2). Have you ever asked God to judge your desires and thoughts? Have you ever found yourself in the company of those who want to do something you believed was wrong? If so, what did you do?
Pray
Loving and merciful God, your constant love is my guide; your faithfulness always leads me. You know all my thoughts and desires. I long to be in your presence and do what is right. Guard my lips and my actions this day. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 27: A prayer of confidence in God’s protection.