First, David asked for vindication for he led a blameless life. Then, he asks the Lord to test him and examine the sincerity of his heart and mind. Now, David brings up four do-nots and four dos to back up his statements. David is presenting himself to God as a person who would ask a request of a king. He is saying, “These eight things are why I am about to make an important request.” None of these eight items are in the Ten Commandments. Can they be even found in the rest of the commandments?
First, David says, “I am not a party to deceitful men.” Second, he says, “I do not consort with hypocrites.” Third, David presents that he does not hang out with evildoers. His fourth don’t is, “I do not even associate with the wicked.” David knows these types of people could cause him to sin. So, David only keeps company with those whose hearts and minds are also blameless.
Then David brings up the good things he does. First, he washes his hands in innocence. In other words, he is free from sin, guile, cunning, and deceit. Second, he goes about the Lord’s altar meaning he keeps himself busy with the work the Lord has for him. Third, he proclaims aloud the Lord’s praises. He is always aware and states God’s holy character in song, psalm, and word. Fourth, David tells others of the great works of the Lord.
David concludes his character list with one last very important item. He loves the house where the Lord lives. Since the temple was not erected yet, David is either referring to the Tabernacle or most likely God’s throne in heaven. This last declaration is important because it is a bridge to the reason David has come to the Lord. David wants to be in the Lord’s presence all the days of his life. That is David’s eternal life goal.
What is my eternal life goal? Where do I want to be for eternity? Do I live my life as to be with the Lord? Do I live a blameless life?
