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.