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I Will Set No Worthless Thing before My Eyes A Psalm of David. 1 I will sing of Your loving devotion and justice; to You, O LORD, I will sing praises. 2I will ponder the way that is blameless— when will You come to me? I will walk in my house with integrity of heart. 3I will set no worthless thing before my eyes. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. 4A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will know nothing of evil. 5Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; the one with haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not endure. 6My eyes favor the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me; he who walks in the way of integrity shall minister to me. 7No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who tells lies shall stand in my presence. 8Every morning I will remove all the wicked of the land, that I may cut off every evildoer from the city of the LORD. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 101 Summary I Will Set No Worthless Thing before My Eyes Verses 1–2 – Commitment to Love and Justice David opens with worship that blends affection and fairness: “I will sing of loving devotion and justice; to You, O LORD, I will sing praises” (v. 1). He vows to “walk with integrity of heart” within his house (v. 2), declaring that personal holiness begins at home. Verses 3–4 – Guarding the Eyes and Heart “I will set no worthless thing before my eyes” (v. 3). The king rejects entertainment, art, or policy that bends toward evil. He refuses crooked ideas, pledging that a “perverse heart” will find no foothold with him (v. 4). Verse 5 – Zero Tolerance for Slander and Pride “Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret I will put to silence; the one with haughty eyes and a proud heart I will not endure” (v. 5). David draws a hard line against destructive speech and arrogance, knowing these sins unravel community trust. Verse 6 – Choosing Faithful Companions “My eyes will be on the faithful in the land” (v. 6). The king looks for companions whose walk matches God’s ways. These people, not the talented yet corrupt, will “dwell” with him and “minister” to him. Verses 7–8 – Purging Evil from the City “No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house” (v. 7). Each dawn the king will “cut off all the wicked” from Zion (v. 8), protecting the capital and the sanctuary by decisive governance. Psalm 101, a psalm of David, explores the intimate resolve of a leader to lead with integrity, righteousness, and a steadfast heart. This psalm is a proclamation, expressing a ruler's commitment to godly principles and his denouncement of wickedness in all its forms. Historical Setting Psalm 101 bears the superscription “Of David.” It likely comes from the early years of his reign, when he moved from a wandering life to the settled responsibilities of a palace (2 Samuel 5). The song reads like an inaugural address, laying out a policy agenda grounded in God’s covenant. Authorship and Date Internal first-person verbs and royal prerogatives match David’s voice. Vocabulary parallels 2 Samuel 8:15—“David reigned over all Israel, administering justice and righteousness.” The psalm fits c. 1000 BC, after Jerusalem became the capital. Literary Structure and Style 1. Personal vows (vv. 1–2) 2. Rejection of private evil (vv. 3–4) 3. Rejection of social evil (v. 5) 4. Positive selection of the faithful (v. 6) 5. Ongoing public cleansing (vv. 7–8) The movement is centrifugal: heart → household → court → city. Key Themes • Integrity over image. The psalmist focuses on unseen motives (“integrity of heart”). • Leadership accountability. A king places himself under God before ruling others. • Holiness in ordinary life. Daily routines—what one watches, listens to, or tolerates—matter. • Community protection. Righteous rule benefits the whole city, not just the palace. Connections to Other Scriptures • Exodus 34:6 – God reveals Himself as “abounding in loving devotion and truth,” mirrored in David’s opening line. • Deuteronomy 17:18-20 – The king must write and read the Law “so that his heart may not be lifted up.” Psalm 101 puts that principle into song. • Proverbs 25:5 – “Remove the wicked from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established.” • 1 Timothy 3:1-7 – New-covenant overseers must be above reproach, echoing David’s criteria. • Revelation 21:27 – Nothing impure enters the New Jerusalem, foreshadowed by the cleansing of Zion in verse 8. Righteous Leadership in Practice David models five leadership actions: 1. Praise first (v. 1) – Worship shapes policies. 2. Set a time for self-examination (v. 2) – “When will You come to me?” invites divine audit. 3. Control inputs (v. 3) – Leadership eyesight determines direction. 4. Confront toxic culture (v. 5) – Silence slander early. 5. Reward faithfulness (v. 6) – Promote based on character, not connection. Household Standards Ancient kings lived in multi-unit complexes bustling with servants, officials, and family. David insists God’s rules, not palace custom, govern that space. Modern application: private life is the proving ground for public ministry (cf. 1 Timothy 3:4-5). Public Justice Verse 8 pictures daily court sessions: at dawn city gates opened, elders gathered, and the king judged. Archaeological finds at Dan and Lachish show bench-like structures where cases were heard. David pledges to “cut off” wickedness—legal removal, not personal vendetta. Key Words and Expressions • “Loving devotion” (ḥesed) – steadfast, covenant love. • “Justice” (mišpāṭ) – right order; legal fairness. Joined together they reflect God’s character (Psalm 89:14). • “Worthless thing” (beliyyaʿal) – later became a name for Satan (2 Corinthians 6:15). • “Cut off” (kārat) – sometimes covenantal (Genesis 15:18); here, decisive exclusion. Archaeological Insights • Royal officials’ titles on bullae from the City of David confirm a structured bureaucracy capable of enforcing standards like those in verses 6-8. • Ostraca from Samaria and Lachish record slander-charges and defamation trials, underscoring the social damage David addresses in verse 5. • Gate complexes excavated at Hazor show benches and storage chambers—spaces where “morning” justice likely occurred, illuminating verse 8’s scene. Messianic Foreshadowing David’s ideal king prefigures his greater Son. Isaiah 11:3-5 says Messiah will judge “with righteousness.” Jesus fulfills verse 6 by gathering faithful disciples and verse 5 by exposing the proud (Matthew 23). The cleansing of the temple (John 2:13-17) echoes verse 7’s refusal to allow deceitful commerce in God’s house. New Testament Echoes • Luke 1:46-55 – Mary celebrates mercy and justice in her Magnificat, themes sparked by Psalm 101. • Titus 1:6-9 – Elders must be blameless; the pastoral lists mirror David’s household regulations. • Hebrews 1:9 – “You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness,” citing Psalm 45 but resonating with Psalm 101’s polarity. Practical Application • Media choices: Ask of every screen, “Is this a worthless thing?” (v. 3). • Speech: Root out casual gossip; it is slander in embryo (v. 5). • Hiring and friendship: Prioritize faithfulness over résumé (v. 6). • Daily review: Mornings provide a prime window for repentance and course correction (v. 8). Summary Snapshot Psalm 101 is a leader’s pledge: sing to God, live clean at home, surround yourself with the trustworthy, silence destructive voices, and guard the community—sunrise after sunrise—until the kingdom fully reflects the King. Connections to Additional Scriptures Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? Proverbs 4:23 Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life. 1 Corinthians 15:33 Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.' Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things. Teaching Points Commitment to Righteousness David begins with a vow to sing of loving devotion and justice (Psalm 101:1), highlighting the importance of both love and justice in a godly life. Personal Integrity In verse 2, David declares, I will walk in my house with integrity of heart. This emphasizes the need for personal holiness, starting within one's own home and heart. Rejection of Evil David resolves not to set worthless things before his eyes (Psalm 101:3), demonstrating a proactive stance against sin and moral corruption. Discernment in Relationships Verses 4-5 show David's commitment to distancing himself from those who are deceitful or slanderous, underscoring the importance of surrounding oneself with godly influences. Promotion of Faithfulness In verse 6, David states, My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, indicating his desire to associate with and promote those who are faithful to God. Zero Tolerance for Deceit The psalm concludes with a strong stance against deceit and wickedness, as David vows to destroy all the wicked of the land (Psalm 101:8), reflecting a commitment to uphold righteousness. Practical Applications Evaluate Personal Integrity Regularly assess your own life and actions to ensure they align with God's standards of holiness and integrity. Guard Your Eyes and Mind Be intentional about what you allow into your life through media, relationships, and other influences, ensuring they are not worthless things. Choose Godly Companions Surround yourself with individuals who encourage and challenge you to grow in your faith and walk with God. Promote Justice and Mercy In your sphere of influence, advocate for justice and show loving devotion, reflecting God's character in your actions. Commit to Daily Worship Like David, make a habit of singing and meditating on God's loving devotion and justice, allowing it to shape your heart and mind. People 1. David (the Psalmist) David is the author of the psalm, expressing his personal commitment to uphold righteousness and integrity in his life and reign. He is determined to lead by example and maintain a household that honors God. 2. The Faithful of the Land These are the people David seeks to associate with and have in his service. They are characterized by their faithfulness and integrity, aligning with David's desire to surround himself with those who are loyal to God. 3. The Blameless David expresses his intention to walk with the blameless and have them minister to him. The Hebrew word for "blameless" (תָּמִים, tamim) implies completeness, integrity, and moral uprightness. 4. The Wicked David vows to distance himself from the wicked, those who engage in deceit and falsehood. He is committed to not tolerating evil in his presence or within his household. 5. The Slanderers These are individuals who speak maliciously against others. David declares that he will silence those who slander their neighbors, emphasizing his commitment to justice and truth. 6. The Arrogant David mentions that he will not endure those with haughty eyes and a proud heart. The Hebrew word for "arrogant" (גַּבְהֵי עֵינַיִם, gabeh einayim) refers to those who are prideful and self-exalting. 7. The Deceitful Those who practice deceit are rejected by David. He is determined to rid his house of anyone who speaks falsely, underscoring his dedication to honesty and integrity. 8. The Evildoers David commits to eliminating evildoers from the city of the Lord, ensuring that his reign is marked by righteousness and justice. In summary, Psalm 101 reflects David's resolve to lead a life of integrity and to govern with righteousness, surrounding himself with those who are faithful and blameless while rejecting the wicked, deceitful, and arrogant. Places 1. House In Psalm 101:2, David speaks of walking with integrity "within my house." The Hebrew word for "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) can refer to one's household or family, symbolizing the personal sphere where one exercises moral and ethical behavior. 2. Land In Psalm 101:6, David mentions his eyes being on the faithful of the land. The Hebrew word for "land" (אֶרֶץ, eretz) often refers to the territory or nation, indicating a broader community or society where righteous governance and leadership are exercised. Events 1. Commitment to Praise and Justice David begins by declaring his intention to sing of loving devotion and justice. He states, "I will sing of loving devotion and justice; to You, O LORD, I will sing praises" (Psalm 101:1). The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" is "chesed," which conveys steadfast love and mercy. 2. Pledge to Live Wisely David expresses his desire to lead a blameless life, saying, "I will ponder the way that is blameless. When will You come to me?" (Psalm 101:2). The Hebrew word "tamim" for "blameless" suggests completeness or integrity. 3. Rejection of Wickedness He commits to avoiding wickedness, stating, "I will walk in my house with integrity of heart. I will set no worthless thing before my eyes" (Psalm 101:2-3). The term "worthless" translates from the Hebrew "belial," often associated with evil or wickedness. 4. Hatred for Faithlessness David declares his disdain for faithless deeds, saying, "I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me" (Psalm 101:3). The Hebrew root "sarah" for "fall away" implies turning aside or apostasy. 5. Purity of Heart He resolves to maintain a pure heart, stating, "A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will know nothing of evil" (Psalm 101:4). The Hebrew word "iqqesh" for "perverse" indicates something twisted or distorted. 6. Condemnation of Slander David vows to silence slanderers, saying, "Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, I will put to silence" (Psalm 101:5). The Hebrew "ragal" for "slanders" suggests spying or speaking maliciously. 7. Rejection of Pride and Arrogance He commits to rejecting pride, stating, "The one with haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not endure" (Psalm 101:5). The Hebrew "gavah" for "haughty" conveys a sense of being exalted or arrogant. 8. Favor for the Faithful David promises to favor the faithful, saying, "My eyes will be on the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me" (Psalm 101:6). The Hebrew "emunah" for "faithful" denotes firmness or steadfastness. 9. Requirement for Integrity He insists on integrity for those who serve him, stating, "He who walks in the way of integrity shall minister to me" (Psalm 101:6). The Hebrew "tamim" again emphasizes completeness or wholeness. 10. Exclusion of Deceit David resolves to exclude deceitful people, saying, "No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house" (Psalm 101:7). The Hebrew "remiyah" for "deceit" implies treachery or fraud. 11. Daily Destruction of the Wicked He commits to daily action against wickedness, stating, "Every morning I will destroy all the wicked of the land" (Psalm 101:8). The Hebrew "shamad" for "destroy" suggests annihilation or extermination. 12. Purging of Evildoers Finally, David vows to purge evildoers from the city, saying, "I will cut off every evildoer from the city of the LORD" (Psalm 101:8). The Hebrew "karath" for "cut off" indicates severing or removing. Lessons from Psalm 101 1. Pursue a Life of Integrity Psalm 101 begins with a commitment to integrity: "I will walk in my house with integrity of heart" (Psalm 101:2). This verse reminds us that true character is revealed in private moments. Strive to live authentically, ensuring your actions align with your beliefs, even when no one is watching. Integrity is the foundation of a life that honors God and inspires others. 2. Guard Your Eyes and Heart "I will set no worthless thing before my eyes" (Psalm 101:3). This powerful declaration encourages us to be vigilant about what we allow into our minds and hearts. In a world filled with distractions, choose to focus on what is pure and uplifting. By guarding your eyes, you protect your heart and maintain a clear path toward righteousness. 3. Reject Evil and Embrace Good Psalm 101:4 states, "A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will know nothing of evil." This lesson calls us to actively reject evil influences and embrace goodness. Surround yourself with people and environments that encourage spiritual growth and moral excellence. By doing so, you create a life that reflects God's love and truth. 4. Cultivate a Community of Faithfulness "My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me" (Psalm 101:6). Building a community of like-minded believers strengthens your faith and provides support in times of need. Seek out relationships that encourage accountability and spiritual growth, fostering a network of faithfulness that uplifts and inspires. 5. Speak Truth and Reject Deceit "No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who tells lies shall stand in my presence" (Psalm 101:7). Honesty is a cornerstone of a life that honors God. Commit to speaking truth in all circumstances, and distance yourself from deceitful influences. By doing so, you create an environment of trust and integrity. 6. Be Diligent in Your Commitments Psalm 101:8 emphasizes the importance of diligence: "Every morning I will destroy all the wicked of the land." While the language is strong, the principle is clear—be proactive and consistent in your commitments. Whether in your spiritual life, work, or relationships, approach each day with purpose and determination to fulfill your God-given responsibilities. 7. Lead by Example The psalmist's commitment to righteousness serves as a reminder to lead by example. Your actions speak louder than words, and living a life that reflects God's principles can inspire others to do the same. Be a beacon of light in your community, demonstrating the love and grace of Christ through your daily interactions. 8. Seek God's Guidance in All Things Implicit in Psalm 101 is the need for divine guidance. As you strive to live a life of integrity and righteousness, seek God's wisdom in every decision. Through prayer and meditation on Scripture, allow the Holy Spirit to guide your path, ensuring your actions align with God's will. 9. Practice Humility and Gratitude While not explicitly stated, the psalmist's commitment to righteousness implies a heart of humility and gratitude. Recognize that your ability to live a godly life is a gift from God, and express gratitude for His guidance and provision. Humility keeps you grounded, while gratitude fuels your spiritual journey. 10. Trust in God's Sovereignty Finally, Psalm 101 reminds us of God's ultimate authority and sovereignty. Trust that He is in control, even when circumstances seem challenging. By placing your faith in His plan, you can navigate life's uncertainties with confidence and peace, knowing that He works all things for the good of those who love Him. Topics 1. Commitment to Mercy and Justice "I will sing of Your loving devotion and justice; to You, O LORD, I will sing praise." (Psalm 101:1) The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" is "chesed," which conveys steadfast love and mercy, highlighting a commitment to uphold these divine attributes. 2. Personal Integrity "I will ponder the way that is blameless. When will You come to me? I will walk in my house with integrity of heart." (Psalm 101:2) The term "integrity" in Hebrew is "tamim," meaning completeness or wholeness, emphasizing a life lived with moral and ethical consistency. 3. Rejection of Wickedness "I will set no worthless thing before my eyes. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me." (Psalm 101:3) The Hebrew word for "worthless" is "belial," often associated with wickedness or worthlessness, indicating a rejection of evil influences. 4. Purity of Heart "A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will know nothing of evil." (Psalm 101:4) The focus is on maintaining a pure heart, free from perversity, with "perverse" in Hebrew being "iqqesh," meaning twisted or distorted. 5. Condemnation of Slander "Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; I will not tolerate one who is haughty and conceited." (Psalm 101:5) The Hebrew root for "slander" is "lashan," which involves speaking maliciously, underscoring the importance of truthful and respectful speech. 6. Favor for the Faithful "My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; he who walks in the way of integrity shall minister to me." (Psalm 101:6) The term "faithful" in Hebrew is "emunah," denoting faithfulness or steadfastness, highlighting the value placed on loyalty and reliability. 7. Exclusion of Deceit "No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who tells lies shall stand in my presence." (Psalm 101:7) The Hebrew word for "deceit" is "mirmah," which involves deception or fraud, emphasizing the exclusion of dishonesty from one's life. 8. Daily Pursuit of Justice "Every morning I will destroy all the wicked of the land, cutting off all evildoers from the city of the LORD." (Psalm 101:8) The commitment to justice is ongoing, with "destroy" in Hebrew being "tzamad," meaning to cut off or eliminate, reflecting a proactive stance against evil. Themes 1. Commitment to Righteousness The psalmist pledges to lead a life of integrity and righteousness. "I will sing of loving devotion and justice; to You, O LORD, I will sing praise" (Psalm 101:1). The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" is "chesed," which implies steadfast love and mercy, highlighting a commitment to God's covenantal love. 2. Personal Integrity A vow to maintain personal integrity is emphasized. "I will ponder the way that is blameless. When will You come to me? I will walk in my house with integrity of heart" (Psalm 101:2). The Hebrew term "tamim" for "blameless" suggests completeness and moral integrity. 3. Rejection of Evil The psalmist declares a rejection of wickedness and evil influences. "I will set no worthless thing before my eyes. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me" (Psalm 101:3). The Hebrew word "belial" for "worthless" often refers to wickedness or worthlessness. 4. Guarding Against Deceit There is a commitment to truthfulness and a rejection of deceit. "A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will know nothing of evil" (Psalm 101:4). The Hebrew root "avah" for "perverse" indicates a deviation from what is right or true. 5. Condemnation of Slander The psalmist condemns slander and pride. "Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; I will not tolerate one who is haughty and proud" (Psalm 101:5). The Hebrew word "lashon" for "slanders" refers to malicious speech or gossip. 6. Selection of the Faithful A commitment to surround oneself with the faithful and upright. "My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; he who walks in the way of integrity shall minister to me" (Psalm 101:6). The Hebrew "emunah" for "faithful" denotes faithfulness and reliability. 7. Exclusion of the Deceitful The psalmist vows to exclude deceitful and dishonest individuals from his presence. "No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who tells lies shall stand in my presence" (Psalm 101:7). The Hebrew "sheqer" for "lies" emphasizes falsehood and deception. 8. Daily Pursuit of Justice A daily commitment to justice and the eradication of wickedness. "Every morning I will silence all the wicked in the land, to cut off from the city of the LORD every evildoer" (Psalm 101:8). The Hebrew "karath" for "cut off" implies a decisive action against evil. Prayer Points Pray for Personal Integrity Ask God to help you walk with integrity in every area of your life, both in private and public. Seek Discernment Pray for wisdom to discern and reject influences that lead away from God's righteousness. Commit to Godly Relationships Ask God to bring faithful and godly people into your life who will encourage you in your walk with Him. Desire for Holiness Pray for a heart that desires holiness and a life that reflects God's justice and loving devotion. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Psalm 101:1’s theme of justice reconcile with David’s own moral failures as recorded in other parts of the Old Testament? 2. In Psalm 101:3, is David’s claim of refusing to set any “vile thing” before his eyes historically plausible, given the idolatries and cultural norms of his era? 3. Does Psalm 101:5’s vow to silence slanderers raise questions about free will or the practicality of eradicating all deceitful speech in ancient Israel? 4. In Psalm 101:7, how can David promise no one deceitful will enter his presence when biblical narratives show him associating with flawed individuals? 5. Is Psalm 101:8’s pledge to “destroy all the wicked” in the land literal, and if so, does archaeological or historical evidence support such a sweeping action? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does it mean to sing of love and justice, as described in verse 1? 2. How does the Psalmist's commitment to integrity and blamelessness apply to our lives today? 3. How can we "walk within our house with a perfect heart" in our modern context? 4. How does the Psalmist's decision to "set no wicked thing before his eyes" guide us in the content we consume today? 5. What could the modern equivalent of "a slanderer" or "a proud heart" be in today's society? 6. How can we identify and avoid deceitful behavior in our daily lives? 7. In what ways can we "destroy all the wicked" in our own land or community? 8. How can the principles in Psalm 101 be applied to leadership roles today? 9. How can we uphold justice and righteousness in our own lives, as the Psalmist pledges? 10. What does it mean to "silence the wicked in the land" in a contemporary context? 11. How can Psalm 101 influence the way we interact with our neighbors and community? 12. How does the Psalmist's resolution to purity guide our personal decisions and commitments? 13. How can we create a household that rejects deceit, as the Psalmist vows in verse 7? 14. What steps can we take to actively seek out the faithful in our own communities? 15. How can we apply the Psalmist's rejection of those who slander their neighbors to online interactions? 16. What qualities should we look for in those who we invite into our homes and lives, based on Psalm 101? 17. How can we echo the Psalmist's resolve to lead a blameless life in our own personal and professional lives? 18. What societal ills would you consider equivalent to the wickedness the Psalmist seeks to eliminate? 19. In what ways do you think the Psalmist's resolve to lead with integrity is relevant to today's world? 20. How can we be more mindful of maintaining personal purity and integrity in our daily interactions and choices, as inspired by Psalm 101? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions