Psalms 18:20

“The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.”

This verse is part of Psalm 18, which is a psalm of David. In this particular psalm, David praises God for delivering him from his enemies, particularly King Saul, who had been pursuing him.

In Psalm 18:20, David acknowledges that the Lord rewarded him based on his righteousness and the cleanness of his hands. This statement reflects David’s understanding of God’s justice and the principle of divine retribution. David believed that his actions and moral character played a role in how God dealt with him.

The concept of righteousness in the Bible refers to living in accordance with God’s commands and moral standards. David recognized that his devotion to following God’s ways had led to God’s favour and blessings upon him. He believed that his integrity and obedience were essential factors in how God dealt with him.

Additionally, David mentions the cleanness of his hands. This phrase metaphorically signifies the absence of guilt or wrongdoing. David emphasises that he had not engaged in deceitful or sinful practices that would have tarnished his relationship with God.

It’s important to note that David’s declaration of his righteousness does not imply a claim to absolute perfection. Throughout the psalm, David acknowledges his dependence on God and attributes his victories to the Lord’s strength and deliverance. The psalm as a whole highlights God’s faithfulness, power, and protection.