Click this link to hear an audio version of the below text narrated by SOTH member Jerry Rhinehart:
Psalm 26 (NIV)
Of David.
1 Vindicate me, Lord, for I have led a blameless life; I have trusted in the Lord and have not faltered. 2 Test me, Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind; 3 for I have always been mindful of your unfailing love and have lived in reliance on your faithfulness. 4 I do not sit with the deceitful, nor do I associate with hypocrites. 5 I abhor the assembly of evildoers and refuse to sit with the wicked. 6 I wash my hands in innocence and go about your altar, Lord, 7 proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds. 8 Lord, I love the house where you live, the place where your glory dwells. 9 Do not take away my soul along with sinners, my life with those who are bloodthirsty,
10 in whose hands are wicked schemes, whose right hands are full of bribes. 11 I lead a blameless life; deliver me and be merciful to me. 12 My feet stand on level ground; in the great congregation, I will praise the Lord.
What does blameless mean in this Psalm?
Eternal Father, I am a sinner. Deliver me from my sins and be merciful to me. Help me to live a life of integrity that is sincere and wholehearted for You. You hate arrogance and pride. I acknowledge that all that I have and all that I do are gifts from You and not of my doing. Give me the humility to use the things you have given me for Your Glory, not mine. Align my focus to be on You and not of this world. Keep my heart and mind pure and not tainted by the evil that is enveloping me. Give me discernment to keep my distance from people who have evil hearts and may bring me down. Help me to not forget the kindness that You have shown in the past. Give me an unwavering trust that You are in control now and through all things. I offer my praise to You and will tell others of all Your wonderful deeds. Guide me with Your love and truth so that I am always faithful to You. Amen