My steps have held to Your paths;This phrase emphasizes the psalmist's commitment to following God's ways. In biblical context, "paths" often symbolize the righteous way of living according to God's commandments. The imagery of walking in God's paths is prevalent throughout Scripture, such as in
Proverbs 3:6, which encourages believers to acknowledge God in all their ways so He can make their paths straight. The psalmist's declaration reflects a life of obedience and dedication, akin to the covenantal faithfulness expected of Israel. Historically, the metaphor of walking in a path would resonate with an agrarian society familiar with the importance of staying on a safe and established route, avoiding the dangers of straying into unknown or treacherous terrain.
my feet have not slipped.
This part of the verse conveys stability and assurance in one's spiritual journey. The imagery of feet not slipping suggests a firm foundation, which is a recurring theme in the Psalms, such as inPsalm 18:33, where God is described as making the psalmist's feet like those of a deer, enabling him to stand on heights. This stability is often associated with trust in God and adherence to His law. In a broader biblical context, it reflects the security found in God's protection and guidance, as seen inJude 1:24, which speaks of God keeping believers from stumbling. Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate foundation and rock upon which believers stand, ensuring they do not fall away from the faith.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
David- The author of
Psalm 17, David is expressing his reliance on God for guidance and protection. He is often seen as a model of faith and trust in God, despite his human flaws.
2.
God- The central figure to whom David is praying. God is portrayed as the guide and protector of those who follow His ways.
3.
Paths- Symbolic of the righteous ways and commandments of God. David is committed to following these divine paths.
4.
Feet- Represents the actions and decisions of a person. David's feet not slipping indicates his steadfastness in following God's ways.
5.
Righteousness- An underlying theme in this Psalm, emphasizing living in accordance with God's will and commands.
Teaching Points
Commitment to God's GuidanceJust as David committed his steps to God's paths, believers today are called to seek and follow God's guidance in every aspect of life.
Steadfastness in FaithDavid's declaration that his feet have not slipped serves as an encouragement to remain steadfast in faith, even amidst challenges.
The Importance of Righteous LivingWalking in God's paths involves living a life that aligns with His righteousness, which requires daily commitment and intentionality.
Trust in God's ProtectionBy holding to God's paths, believers can trust in His protection and provision, knowing that He will keep them from slipping.
Reflection on Personal WalkThis verse invites believers to reflect on their own spiritual journey and consider whether their steps are aligned with God's paths.
Lists and Questions
Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 17
How does the psalmist’s reliance on personal righteousness (Psalm 17:5) align with New Testament teachings about salvation by faith and not by works (Ephesians 2:8–9)?
What does it mean to walk circumspectly?
How does a lamp guide my path?
How can I fully devote myself to God?(5)
Hold up.--Not, as in the Authorised Version, imperative, which is directly opposed to the context. The psalmist still asserts his innocence. Render:--
My course kept close in thy tracks,
My footsteps have not wavered.
(Comp.Job 23:11;Psalm 41:12.)
Paths.--Literally,wheel-tracks.Verse 5.- Hold thou up my goings in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not. So De Wette and Rosenmuller; but most recent critics prefer to consider the words as an assertion rather than a prayer, and translate, "My steps have held fast to thy paths: [therefore] my feet have not been moved" (Kay, Hengstenberg, Alexander, Cheyne, 'Speaker's Commentary,' Revised Version).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
My steps
אֲ֭שֻׁרַי(’ă·šu·ray)
Noun - feminine plural construct | first person common singular
Strong's 838:Step, going
have clung
תָּמֹ֣ךְ(tā·mōḵ)
Verb - Qal - Infinitive absolute
Strong's 8551:To sustain, to obtain, keep fast, to help, follow close
to Your paths;
בְּמַעְגְּלוֹתֶ֑יךָ(bə·ma‘·gə·lō·w·ṯe·ḵā)
Preposition-b | Noun - feminine plural construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 4570:An entrenchment, track
my feet
פְעָמָֽי׃(p̄ə·‘ā·māy)
Noun - feminine plural construct | first person common singular
Strong's 6471:A beat, foot, anvil, occurrence
have not
בַּל־(bal-)
Adverb
Strong's 1077:A failure, nothing, not at all, lest
slipped.
נָמ֥וֹטּוּ(nā·mō·wṭ·ṭū)
Verb - Nifal - Perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 4131:To waver, to slip, shake, fall
Links
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OT Poetry: Psalm 17:5 My steps have held fast to your (Psalm Ps Psa.)
