Psalm 26 (Tate & Brady)

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.