Psalms
Summary
Psalm 15 is a "liturgy of entrance," where the psalmist asks who is worthy to dwell in God's presence on His "holy hill." The answer is not found in religious ritual, but in moral character. The righteous guest of God is one who walks uprightly, speaks the truth from the heart, and does not slander his neighbour. He honours those who fear the LORD, keeps his promises even when it hurts him, and does not exploit the poor. The psalm concludes with the assurance that anyone who lives this way "will never be shaken." It sets a high bar for the ethical life of the believer.
LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?
The one who walks blamelessly and does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart;
who does not slander with his tongue, who does no wrong to his neighbour, and casts no slur on his friend;
in whose eyes a vile person is despised but who honours those who fear the LORD; who keeps an oath even when it hurts and does not change;
who does not lend his money at interest and does not take a bribe against the innocent. The one who does these things will never be shaken.