Psalm 26:4

Modern

I do not sit with deceitful men, nor keep company with hypocrites.

Traditional

I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.

Literal

I do not sit with men of vanity, and with dissemblers I will not go in.

Latin

Non sedi cum concilio vanitatis, et cum iniqua gerentibus non introibo.

Hebrew

English

I do not sit with deceitful men, nor keep company with hypocrites.

Because of his devotion to the Lord (Psalm 26:1–3), the psalmist separates himself from evil people (see Psalm 1:1).

In this personal lament, the psalmist prays for redemption because of his innocence and the Lord's justice.

These psalms develop the importance of:

integrity (Psalms 25:4–7, 12–14, 21; 26:6, 11; 27:7–12),
God's care as a shepherd (Psalms 23:1; 28:9),
God's guidance (Psalms 23:2–3; 25:5; 27:11),
God's goodness (Psalms 23:6; 25:7–8; 27:13), and
living in his house (Psalms 23:6; 26:8; 27:4, 8).

Theme notes and profiles

Jeremiah 15:17
I never sat with the band of revelers, nor did I celebrate with them. Because Your hand was on me, I sat alone, for You have filled me with indignation.
Psalm 1:1
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers.
Proverbs 13:20
He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.
2 Corinthians 6:17
“Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”
Psalm 119:115
Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may obey the commandments of my God.
1 Corinthians 15:33
Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good character.”
Psalm 119:63
I am a friend to all who fear You, and to those who keep Your precepts.
Proverbs 9:6
Leave your folly behind, and you will live; walk in the way of understanding.”
Proverbs 12:11
The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies lacks judgment.