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David's Integrity - Psalm 26
David's Integrity - Psalm 26
Integrity. David wrote: "Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity" (Ps. 26:1).
As one reads various quotes about integrity, you will see they often speak of 'being true to yourself'. In our current culture, we are pretty much addicted to being true to self even when 'self' is wrong! Such 'integrity' produces evil and ungodliness! Remember again the stories in the book of Judges when every man did that which was right in his own eyes.
David shows that there must be a foundation of righteousness. He trusted in the LORD without wavering (1); He walked in God's truth (2). Having built this foundation of right and wrong, he then proceeded to live in harmony with such concepts. He would NOT sit with deceitful men. He would not sit with the wicked. He would NOT go with 'pretenders'. He hated the assembly of evildoers.
We not only treat others 'as we want to be treated', but we desire to treat others as God has instructed! When we have the power to mistreat others, we refrain. When we can do wrong and not be punished by men, we yet refrain. When we find ourselves being influenced to depart from God's ways, we not only disassociate ourselves from such company, but also reprove them for their ungodliness (cp. Eph. 5:11).
With David, such integrity allowed him to have confidence in judgment. He was NOT arrogant towards God, he acknowledged and walked with God. He longed to be with God, to dwell in the habitation of His house where His glory dwelt. With such integrity of life, he would publicly praise the lord (vs. 12).
Does this picture of integrity describe your manner of life? Hugh DeLong
