Psalm 18:20
“The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.”
KJV
Read in Psalm 18Meaning
Recompense according to righteousness concerns the integrity of David’s cause and covenant conduct in this song, not a claim of absolute sinlessness.
Integrity, recompense, humility, and light
Verses 20–28 reflect on righteousness, keeping God’s ways, reciprocal covenant language, God’s care for the afflicted, and light in darkness without claiming sinless perfection or a prosperity formula.
Read carefully
Recompense according to righteousness concerns the integrity of David’s cause and covenant conduct in this song, not a claim of absolute sinlessness. Keep the verse inside its literary unit.
Reflection
Read this verse as part of David’s song of deliverance, receiving its trust and praise without turning royal or battle imagery into permission for private violence, superiority, or guaranteed immunity.