Homeschool Moms Teach the Psalms (Psalms 22 - 26)Sample

Psalm 26 - Examine Me, Lord

As we read through Psalm 26, we find the Psalmist, David, proclaims his strong belief in God and strong stance in His ways. It is like a declaration or mission statement about his life. You will find about 20 instances of the words I, my, and me as he proclaims that the LORD is the center of his heart and life. Interestingly, the first two words of this Psalm are “vindicate me,” meaning to defend and support as David proceeds to defend and support God throughout the Psalm.

In the second verse, David asks God to examine him. It is a good request for any of us to ask of God; even better, if we have the same surety as David did, God would find him walking in integrity.

Here is a simplified version of David’s declaration:

• I walk in integrity
• I have trusted in the LORD
• My eyes are fixed on Your lovingkindness
• My feet walk in Your truth
• I do not sit with idolators
• I do not partner with hypocrites
• I do not gather with evildoers
• I do not sit with the wicked
• I wash my hands to be at Your altar
• I proclaim thanksgiving
• I tell of Your wondrous works
• I love Your house, the place of Your glory
• Don’t count me in with sinners, murderers, schemers, and bribers
• I walk in integrity
• I stand in stability
• I bless the LORD

We also find David asking the LORD to examine him, try his heart and mind, redeem him, and be merciful to him (verses 3 and 11). Declaring who David is before God, he humbly asks Him to examine his heart with mercy. We would do well to ask God for the same examination, coupled with mercy.

To Do With the Kids:

Each child chooses a large rock to copy Psalm 26:2: “Examine me, O LORD, and try me; test my mind and my heart.” Use bright colored markers on the rock as base colors, and then use a black Sharpee pen for the words. Discuss how students who take exams do best when they are well prepared. Ask, “Are we prepared to be examined by God?” The words of this verse can also be added to a bedtime prayer routine.