But I will walk with integrity;
The psalmist, traditionally understood to be David, expresses a commitment to live a life of integrity. In the biblical context, integrity refers to a wholeness of character and consistency in moral and ethical principles. This commitment is significant in the life of a believer, as it reflects a heart aligned with God's will. The Hebrew word for "integrity" can also imply completeness or innocence, suggesting a life that is blameless before God. This echoes the call to holiness found throughout Scripture, such as in Leviticus 19:2, where God commands His people to be holy as He is holy. Walking with integrity is a theme seen in the lives of biblical figures like Job, who was described as blameless and upright (Job 1:1).

redeem me
The plea for redemption indicates a recognition of human fallibility and the need for divine intervention. In the Old Testament, redemption often involves the idea of being bought back or delivered from a dire situation. This concept is deeply rooted in the history of Israel, particularly in the Exodus narrative, where God redeems His people from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 6:6). Theologically, this foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, who redeems humanity from sin and death (Ephesians 1:7). The psalmist's request for redemption acknowledges that only God can restore and save.

and be merciful to me.
The appeal for mercy underscores the psalmist's dependence on God's grace. Mercy, in the biblical sense, involves compassion and forgiveness extended to those who are undeserving. This request highlights the understanding that human righteousness is insufficient without God's merciful intervention. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on justice and mercy, as seen in Micah 6:8, which calls for acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. The psalmist's plea aligns with the broader biblical narrative of God's character as merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love (Psalm 103:8). This mercy is ultimately embodied in the person of Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and reconciliation to all who believe.

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 26, David is expressing his commitment to living a life of integrity before God.

2. God
The ultimate judge and redeemer, to whom David appeals for mercy and redemption.

3. Temple
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of Psalm 26 suggests David's desire to worship in God's holy place, emphasizing his commitment to purity and integrity.Walking with Integrity
Integrity involves consistency in moral and ethical principles, aligning one's actions with God's standards.

It requires a conscious decision to live transparently before God and others, even when it is challenging.

Seeking Redemption and Mercy
Acknowledging our need for God's redemption and mercy is crucial, as human efforts alone cannot achieve righteousness.

This verse reminds us of the importance of humility and dependence on God's grace.

The Role of Faith in Integrity
Faith in God empowers believers to maintain integrity, trusting that He will redeem and show mercy.

Integrity is not just about external actions but is deeply rooted in one's relationship with God.

Practical Steps to Integrity
Regular self-examination and confession of sins help maintain a life of integrity.

Engaging in community and accountability with other believers supports a lifestyle of integrity.

Living as a Witness
Walking with integrity serves as a testimony to others, reflecting God's character and drawing others to Him.

Our integrity can influence and inspire those around us to seek God and His ways.Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 26

What lessons do Saul, Jonathan, and David's lives teach?

(Psalm 26:1) How can David claim complete integrity when other scriptures say no one is without sin?

How does Psalm 11:6's description of raining coals and brimstone fit with other biblical accounts that emphasize mercy over destruction?

What does 'Christianism' mean?Verse 11. - But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity; i.e. I will continue to walk as I have walked hitherto (see ver. 1) - I will be "integer vitae scelerisque purus" - a brave and good resolve. Had he but kept to it! Redeem me, and be merciful unto me (compare the comment on ver. 1). Though hitherto he has walked innocently, and is resolved still to continue to walk innocently; he nevertheless feels that he has need of redeeming mercy. Though he "knows nothing by himself, yet he is not thereby justified" (1 Corinthians 4:4). Many, doubtless, are his "secret sins," which God has "set in the light of his countenance" (Psalm 90:8).

Parallel Commentaries ...


But I
וַ֭אֲנִי (wa·’ă·nî)
Conjunctive waw | Pronoun - first person common singular
Strong's 589: I

will walk
אֵלֵ֗ךְ (’ê·lêḵ)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 1980: To go, come, walk

with integrity;
בְּתֻמִּ֥י (bə·ṯum·mî)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 8537: Completeness, integrity, also part of the high priest's breastplate

redeem me
פְּדֵ֣נִי (pə·ḏê·nî)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular | first person common singular
Strong's 6299: To sever, ransom, gener, to release, preserve

and be merciful to me.
וְחָנֵּֽנִי׃ (wə·ḥān·nê·nî)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular | first person common singular
Strong's 2603: To bend, stoop in kindness to an inferior, to favor, bestow, to implore


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OT Poetry: Psalm 26:11 But as for me I will walk (Psalm Ps Psa.)