King James Version

What Does Psalms 26:11 Mean?

Psalms 26:11 in the King James Version says “But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.”

Psalms 26:11 · KJV

Context

9

Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men: Gather: or, Take not away bloody: Heb. men of blood

10

In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes. full: Heb. filled with

11

But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.

12

My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD.

Read Psalms 26 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The resolution 'But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me' combines personal commitment with humble petition. 'I will walk in integrity' expresses determination for holy living. Yet immediately the psalmist prays 'redeem me, and be merciful'—acknowledging that even covenant faithfulness depends on grace. Reformed theology emphasizes that perseverance is both human responsibility and divine gift. We walk in integrity because God redeems us and shows mercy, not to earn redemption.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Throughout Scripture, divine imperatives ('walk in integrity') combine with divine promises ('I will redeem'). God commands what He enables, and sanctification proceeds through both human effort and divine empowerment (Phil. 2:12-13).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does 'walking in integrity' depend on God's redeeming mercy?
  2. What does it mean to pursue holiness while simultaneously crying for mercy?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַ֭אֲנִי1 of 5
H589

i

בְּתֻמִּ֥י2 of 5

“in mine integrity”

H8537

completeness; figuratively, prosperity; usually (morally) innocence

אֵלֵ֗ךְ3 of 5
H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

פְּדֵ֣נִי4 of 5

“redeem”

H6299

to sever, i.e., ransom; generally to release, preserve

וְחָנֵּֽנִי׃5 of 5

“me and be merciful”

H2603

properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e., move to favor by petition)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 26:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 26:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 26:1Psalms 69:181 Peter 1:18-191 Thessalonians 2:10Titus 2:14Isaiah 38:3

Test Your Knowledge

Psalms 26 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPsalms Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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