Psalms 25:21
Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.
Original Language Analysis
תֹּם
Let integrity
H8537
תֹּם
Let integrity
Strong's:
H8537
Word #:
1 of 5
completeness; figuratively, prosperity; usually (morally) innocence
יִצְּר֑וּנִי
preserve
H5341
יִצְּר֑וּנִי
preserve
Strong's:
H5341
Word #:
3 of 5
to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)
Cross References
Psalms 41:12And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever.Proverbs 11:3The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.Psalms 26:1Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.Psalms 26:11But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.Acts 24:16And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.Psalms 7:8The LORD shall judge the people: judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me.Proverbs 20:7The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.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.Daniel 6:22My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.
Historical Context
Proverbs repeatedly teaches that wisdom and righteousness lead to life, while folly and wickedness lead to death. David experienced this—his integrity preserved him when deception would have brought ruin (1 Sam. 24-26).
Questions for Reflection
- How does integrity provide protection in ways dishonesty cannot?
- What does 'waiting on God' require of you practically?
Analysis & Commentary
The prayer 'Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee' expresses confidence that godly character provides protection. 'Integrity' (tom) means completeness/wholeness; 'uprightness' (yosher) means straightness/moral correctness. These are both divine gifts and human responsibilities. Reformed theology emphasizes that sanctification protects believers from many dangers—not mechanically, but providentially. God honors and preserves those whose character reflects His holiness. Waiting on God demonstrates faith that His timing is perfect.