Psalm 26 is a protest of innocence (verses 1, 6, 11) in which David asks God to thoroughly investigate him: "Examine my heart and my mind" (verse 2, NIV). It could be that he was facing some false accusations from others at this point as in the next psalm, though it is possible that he simply saw his life in jeopardy due to illness or enemies and was pleading with God to not allow him to be destroyed with the punishment due the wicked. He explains the pattern of his life—not sinless, but consistent: "I walk continually in your truth" (verse 3) and "I lead a blameless life" (verse 11). The Expositor's Bible Commentary notes that David "is not thinking about [only] two aspects of his life: spiritual and intellectual or emotional and rational. Rather, he offers himself completely for a total examination."

David aligns his life with two purposes: to worship God—“so I will go about your altar, O Lord," (verse 6)—and to tell about God's wonderful works (verse 7). David speaks of his integrity in the sense of pursuing the expectations God has for him. He strives to do things that please God and avoid the things God hates (verses 3-8). The apostle Peter states that God has similar expectations for Christians today. Just as David proclaimed God's wondrous works with thanksgiving, we are to show forth God's praises now (1 Peter 2:9-10; compare Psalm 26:7).

Because David walks with integrity and trusts God, he stands on level ground (verse 12). David's appreciation of an even place calls to mind Christ's teaching on the importance of laying a foundation on good, solid ground (Matthew 7:24-25).