Psalms 18:23
I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity.
Original Language Analysis
וָאֱהִ֣י
H1961
וָאֱהִ֣י
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 5
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
תָמִ֣ים
I was also upright
H8549
תָמִ֣ים
I was also upright
Strong's:
H8549
Word #:
2 of 5
entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth
עִמּ֑וֹ
H5973
עִמּ֑וֹ
Strong's:
H5973
Word #:
3 of 5
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
Cross References
Psalms 37:27Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore.Psalms 17:3Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing; I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.Psalms 11:7For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.1 Chronicles 29:17I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.1 Samuel 26:23The LORD render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness: for the LORD delivered thee into my hand to day, but I would not stretch forth mine hand against the LORD'S anointed.
Historical Context
Particularly references David sparing Saul's life when he could have justified killing him, maintaining moral integrity despite provocation and human reasoning that supported vengeance.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas are you tempted toward divided loyalty to God?
- How do you actively 'keep yourself' from known sin patterns?
Analysis & Commentary
David was 'blameless' ('tamim'—whole/complete) before God and kept himself from iniquity. Blameless doesn't mean sinless but undivided in loyalty. The Hebrew 'aven' (iniquity) is intentional evil. David maintained integrity despite temptation and opportunity for revenge. This anticipates Paul's goal of blameless holiness (1 Thessalonians 5:23) and Jesus' call to be perfect/complete (Matthew 5:48).