“But as for me, I shall walk in my integrity; redeem me, and be gracious to me. My foot stands on level ground; in the great assembly I will bless the Lord.” -Psalm 26:11–12
The psalm seems to employ an inclusio, where the conclusion circles back to address the introduction. Recall how the psalm begins:
“Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the Lord without wavering. Prove me, O Lord, and try me; test my heart and my mind. For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in your faithfulness.” -Psalm 26:1–3
It opens with David’s petition to be vindicated on the basis of having walked in his integrity. It closes with the assumption that he has been vindicated and will not be swept away with the evildoers. And because he has been vindicated, he promises to walk in his integrity, not by his own power, but by the strength of the Lord in the spirit of humility.
Just as David’s faith in having his petition answered was based on the Lord’s faithfulness and steadfast love, his ability to do as he promises is based on the solid ground of the Lord’s graciousness. And in contrast to his opening petition, he now promises to bless the Lord in the great assembly—amidst the congregation.
He starts with a petition to the Lord and ends with a praise before the assembly. But from beginning to end, his steps were always sure because the Lord’s grace was his level ground.