Self-examination

It is getting close to finals time at Moody Bible Institute. I just explained to my students why I still set finals when some other professors do not. I need to test what I have taught to the students to see evidence that it is there.

For the Christian we need to examine ourselves for truth and love. Truth, in the context of the psalms is equivalent to a faithful consistency. Someone who lives in truth is consistently dependent on a consistent God. This kind of consistency lives in confidence and the assurance that, although we are not perfect, we are ‘not guilty’ before God. For the Christian, we have confidence that God has delivered us from a life of evil. This is not proud, it is a reality based in Christ. If we understand how much our behavior is changed by our relationship with Christ, it will lead to a thankful life of praise and worship in God’s presence.

Psalm 26

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.

Questions

What does David ask God to do in verse 1?
What two words does David use when he asks God to do something in verse 2 (These words are parallel: They mean the same thing as each other)?
How does David answer his examination?
What would you say in defense to God?
How would you make a case that your life should not be taken away with sinners?

About Plymothian

I teach at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. My interests include education, biblical studies, and spiritual formation. I have been married to Kelli since 1998 and we have two children, Daryl and Amelia. For recreation I like to run, play soccer, play board games, read and travel.

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